San Diego Real Estate Insider

Real Estate Market in Oceanside

Oceanside is the third largest city in the San Diego Metro area.  Even though it has a population of over 167,000 people, it maintains a quaint and classic beach-y feel.  Situated just south of Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, the busiest military base in the country, Oceanside is about 40 miles north of downtown San Diego.

With so many attractions and events in the area, it is no wonder that Oceanside appeals to so many different people from families to young surfers to older people who come to the area to escape cold weather in other parts of the country.  It is commonly linked with Carlsbad and West Vista to form the “Tri-City area.” 

Neighborhood Highlights

There are several major areas within Oceanside that feature a combination of single-family homes, condominiums and townhomes.  Each area has several smaller neighborhoods that offer a broad spectrum of homes and prices.  Following are brief descriptions and highlights of each neighborhood:

The Beach area/Seaside.  The ‘hub’ of Oceanside, this popular area features more affluent single family homes, condominiums and townhomes situated along the Coast and Pier or within walking distance.  In addition to stunning homes with outstanding views, there are beautiful condominiums and twin homes along the Strand.  Heading a few blocks inland, single family homes and condominiums are featured throughout the area in neighborhoods like Sea Cliff, North Coast Village, and others.  List prices start as low as the low to mid-$200s and climb well into the millions.

Fire Mountain.  Situated in the eastern part of the city, this elevated community with a rural atmosphere offers larger custom-built homes on large lots with unparalleled views of Oceanside and the Pacific Ocean.  There are several neighborhoods from which to choose including Buena Vista Highlands, Laurel View Estates, the Woodlands and Ocean Village.  Each offers something to fit every buyer from the most affordable homes to more luxurious homes with prices between the upper-$100s to mid-$800s.

Henie Hills.  Henie Hills is a very well sought after area in Oceanside.  The neighborhood dates back to the late 1930s and features homes priced from the mid-$300s to upper-$800s.  Homes in Henie Hills must be of a minimum standard square footage.

Arrowood/Sycamore Springs.  Located just minutes from Camp Pendleton, these neighborhoods are more inland and built around the Arrowood Golf Course.  They feature lots of green space and nice-sized homes with beautiful views of rolling hills.  Most homes are priced between the low-$300s and low-$600s.

Rancho Del Oro.  This large neighborhood is located in the center of Oceanside and features beautiful homes and condominium communities. A newer community, it offers condominium homes priced from the mid-$100s to $300K and single family homes from the upper-$200s to $600K.

The Numbers

The most notable fact about Oceanside is that it is a very affordable city in terms of home ownership.  The most recent median price is $330K for single family homes and $175K for homes in condominium and townhome communities.  While the prices are not showing significant increases as they are in other areas of the metro area, they are showing slight ones that signal the area is stabilizing.  As for how long homes take to sell, the most recent average number of days on the market sits at about 75 days for both types of homes which is great and represents a nice decrease in the time it takes to sell. 

Considering Oceanside

Oceanside is a great place to live in the San Diego metro area.  It offers more opportunities for home ownership with moderately priced homes throughout the community.  While the rebound has been a bit slower in this area, the market has stabilized and increases are starting to happen.  It will just take a bit more time.

Oceanside – A Classic Beach Town

Welcome to Oceanside, California!  It is situated on California’s South Coast along about six miles of coastline.  Located about 40 miles north of downtown San Diego, Oceanside is located just south of Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton.  Oceanside is commonly referred to being part of the “Tri-City area” with North Carlsbad and West Vista. 

Oceanside is a greatly popular area of Southern California with a diverse population.  Since 1970, the number of people has grown four times over.  With a population of about 167,000 people, Oceanside is the third largest city in the entire San Diego Metro area and covers more than 40 square miles. 

The climate is one of the best parts of living in Oceanside.  High temperatures averaging between the mid-60s in the winter months and mid-70s in the summer months while average lows are between the mid-40s and mid-60s.  For the most part, with only about 11 inches of rainfall each year, the sun is always shining just as anyone would expect to happen in this part of the country.

Attractions in Oceanside

Oceanside is full of attractions and events that are very popular with area residents as well as people throughout Southern California.  Probably the most notable attraction is the Oceanside Pier.  A whopping 1,954 feet long, it is the longest wooden pier in the western part of the United States.  Much of the action in Oceanside happens around the Pier. 

Featured in several popular movies, one of the most memorable is Top Gun where the bungalow home featured in the movie was located just up from the Oceanside Strand.  Other movies include Heartbreak Ridge; Diamonds are Forever; and, The Whole Ten Yards.

As for events, Oceanside is famous for some exciting annual events including the Day of the Dead Celebration held annually the first weekend in November; Oceanside Harbor Days, held the second in weekend in September; and, the Oceanside Parade of Lights, a December parade where boats throughout the harbor area are decorated with holiday lights.

Oceanside Harbor Village is the hub of activity in this classic beach community.  It features lots of unique family owned shops and restaurants along the boardwalk.  Close by is Harbor Beach, one of the widest beaches in San Diego County.  It is a popular beach for just about anyone.  Families love it because of its size while surfers hang out by the jetties where the waves are ideal.

The People of Oceanside

Because it is such a “happening” town, it is understandable that the population of Oceanside is somewhat younger than other surrounding areas with a median age of about 35 years old.  The median income is about $63,000 with residents being employed by Genica Corporation (geeks.com), Genetech and Mira Costa Community College. People live here because Oceanside combines the best of both worlds – living in a large metro area with a true beach-y atmosphere.

Neighborhoods in Oceanside

Oceanside is broken up into several sections or large neighborhoods some of which are much older than others.  Each area has its own character and attraction to different residents.  Within these major neighborhoods are smaller subdivisions.  The best part of Oceanside real estate is that there is a home to fit every budget and every buyer.

Living in Oceanside

Living in Oceanside is ideal for those who want the conveniences and action of a large city as well as the laid back atmosphere of a classic beach community.   The people in Oceanside love where they live and work hard to maintain its charm and appeal.  Because homes fit many different budgets, it is no wonder that this is a very popular place in Southern California to settle.  Take a look at this wonderful city.  We are sure it is will be a top pick for many people!

Buying or Selling Real Estate in Oceanside

Oceanside, California is a wonderful community with lots to offer residents and visitors.  This is a town that the amenities and conveniences a large city has (after all it is the third largest city in the San Diego metro) but still keeps that beach-y flavor that many smaller “beach towns” in and around the area have. 

Because it is a larger city and is situated close to many of the corporate parks in the northern part of the county as well as the Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, it draws tons of people wanting to live near or on the ocean.  From first time buyers to real estate investors looking for vacation rentals, Oceanside has a home to fit their needs.

Selling a Home in Oceanside, California

With the market beginning to rebound, buyers are coming to the table.  The number of sales each month continues to increase.  The most recent numbers show that the number of monthly sales increased about 35 percent from a year ago.  As for the median price, the most current price sits at about $330K for single family homes and $175K for condominium homes and townhomes.  These amounts reflect a slight uptick but more importantly, a signal that the real estate market in Oceanside is stabilizing.  Homes typically take about 75 days to sell which shows that buyers are ready to buy rather than still continuing to kick tires.

Buying a Home in Oceanside, California

For those interested in buying in Oceanside, now is the time.  Because prices have stabilized, buyers can still get a “good deal.”  The most recent median price of single family homes in Oceanside showed a slight uptick of 2 percent over the previous month and year while condos were up slightly over the past month but down a smidgeon for the past year.  As for the time on the market, it is important for buyers to be ready to make a move as homes sell within 75 days or two and a half months. 

As for foreclosures and short sales, they are still out there.  Although they continue to decrease in number (most recently, by 10 to 15 percent over the last month), those buyers interested in buying distressed property have plenty of opportunities. 

Relocation to Oceanside

For those relocating to Oceanside, our agents are very familiar with the area.  We can provide you with the important information regarding schools, neighborhoods, and all of the necessary phone numbers to make your move as painless as possible.

The Next Steps

Whether buying or selling, the most important factor to consider is pricing.  Our real estate agents have a lot of experience with the Oceanside market.  We can help sellers with listing and marketing a property to successfully sell as well as provide buyers with the most up to date information to make a reasonable and sound offer. 

Oceanside is a great place to buy for just about every type of buyer.  There is a broad spectrum of list prices from the mid-$100s for condominium homes to the multi-millions for oceanfront property with spectacular views. 

Just take the plunge.

The Rancho Santa Fe Real Estate Market

Rancho Santa Fe is undoubtedly one of the most exclusive areas in Southern California as well as the state.  When you mention this town to anyone who knows the area, the number one comment is how unbelievable it is.  With its grand estates on perfectly landscaped lots, this chic area is one in which people aspire to live.  This primarily residential community, commonly referred to as “The Ranch,” has a population of slightly over 3,100 people.  The idyllic character of the community is very evident with its winding roads, rolling hills, eucalyptus trees and massive green space. 

Residential Highlights of The Ranch

A surprising site in Rancho Santa Fe is that, although this is a very small community, there are more than a few neighborhoods, most of which are gated.  Each consists of an enclave of estates with beautifully landscaped lawns.  The architecture throughout the area has a Spanish feel to the design and features within each home.  

In terms of neighborhoods, no one neighborhood sticks out as the most exclusive in The Ranch.  The homes are impressive and, for the most part, priced well over the million dollar mark.  The views from the homes are spectacular and feature ocean views as well as rolling hills, green pastures and lots of trees.   

Most home prices in each neighborhood are priced from just over $1 million.  At the other end of the spectrum, the prices vary.  Most are priced to about $6 million to $7 million in neighborhoods like Cielo, The Farms, and River Estates.  Others feature homes priced even higher as in The Groves where homes top $10 million and The Covenant where they top $20 million.

Even though most of the neighborhoods feature single family homes, there are some condominiums and townhome communities scattered throughout the area.  Las Casitas, situated within The Covenant, features homes priced from $1 million while the Villas at Morgan Run start in the upper-$500s.  Other communities like Whispering Palms and those within Rancho Santa Fe Village are priced similarly. 

The Numbers

Rancho Santa Fe real estate is one of the most exclusive areas in the country.  The numbers confirm this fact.  The average sale price of a single family home is $2.8 million and just over $700K for a condominium or townhome.  Surprisingly, with the high price tags and limited market of potential buyers, homes sell fairly quickly with single family homes selling in less than six months and condominiums within two months. 

A Secluded Paradise

For those wanting privacy and luxury, living in Rancho Santa Fe is the place to be.  This beautiful town in a rural setting features some of the most magnificent homes of which many only dream.  For the upper echelon, Rancho Santa Fe is a well sought after area in Southern California.  It is no wonder, celebrities and major sports figures settle here.

To Live in Rancho Santa Fe

When you mention the city of Rancho Santa Fe to anyone from Southern California, the first word said is “WOW!”  The Ranch, as called by the locals, is probably one of the most chic areas in the country with the most unbelievable homes imagined.  Located a mere four miles from the Pacific Ocean, this bedroom community of San Diego is comprised of primarily residential homes on large lots. 

The climate is slightly warmer than the typical weather in downtown San Diego.  Because it is slightly more inland and somewhat elevated, the temperatures can range from the high-30s in January to the mid-80s in July.  With little rainfall throughout the year, the sun always shines. 

Highlights of Rancho Santa Fe

Rancho Santa Fe is, for the most part, a residential area with the most beautiful estates scattered throughout the area.  This is a community where notable celebrities like Phil Mickelson, Olympic snowboarder Shaun White and Gena Davis live here.  Bill Gates also has a home here. Rancho Santa Fe homes is the ultimate in luxury living. 

Other noteworthy points of interest are the Village of Rancho Santa Fe which is a quaint village featuring some of the nicest, most unique shops and restaurants in the entire metro.  Additionally, there are a number of private schools which is natural given the exclusive level of homes and residents in Rancho Santa Fe. 

Because it is in close proximity to Del Mar, the Ranch is well known for its passion for horses.  The residents frequent one of several equestrian facilities, gather at the polo matches or simply go for a ride on the bridal paths throughout the area.  When driving around Rancho Santa Fe, horses in pastures is a common sight.

The Residents of Rancho Santa Fe

Rancho Santa Fe continually ranks as the first or second area of highest income communities in the country.  The residents are established professionals who have risen to the top of their careers.  The median household income is $245,000 in this town of only 3,117 people.  The median age is about 51 years old.  The residents want an exclusive and private sanctuary to call home and find that the Ranch provides all of that.

Neighborhoods

Although this community is small in comparison to others, there are several neighborhoods located throughout the Ranch providing characteristics that appeal to different people.  Most communities are gated and feature large estate homes on considerable lots.  Within these neighborhoods are smaller subdivisions that may encompass only a handful of homes.  But the key element throughout Rancho Santa Fe is the utterly unbelievable residential property that blankets the community.  Homes are priced starting at the $1 million mark for the most part in neighborhoods like Morgan Run, The Crosby, The Covenant and Cielo.  Although they are, for the most part, priced in the $3 million to $10 million range in communities like The Groves, Fairbanks Ranch, The River Estates and Farms, there are homes that can top $20 million. 

See It to Believe It

Rancho Santa Fe is undoubtedly a sight to behold.  It is a top pick for those who want the best of everything and to live in the most exclusive of communities.  With a quaint yet chic downtown area featuring some of the best restaurants and shops, Rancho Santa Fe allows its residents to have all the amenities and conveniences of a major metro area with the ability to stay close to home.

Buying and Selling Real Estate in Rancho Santa Fe

Rancho Santa Fe is one of the most exclusive residential areas in the country. It is situated about four miles inland from the Pacific coast and features absolutely beautiful landscapes and scenery.  With a population of just over 3,100 people, it is a community in which many aspire to live. 

In terms of income, Rancho Santa Fe leads the nation in per capita income and home values.  With a median income of about $250K, the Ranch constantly ranks in the top five on many lists of cities with the highest incomes.  After driving through the area, it is easy to see why it ranks so high. 

Selling a Home in Rancho Santa Fe

Because homes here are so lavish and stunning, it is necessary to understand that there is a select pool of potential buyers out there looking for homes of this caliber. For the most part, single-family homes on the market are priced from $1 million to over $20 million and are generally situated in gated neighborhoods.  There are also condominium and townhome communities within these neighborhoods that are priced between the upper-$500s and almost $2 million. 

The most recent average sale price of a single-family home is about $2.8 million and just over $700K for a home in a townhome or condominium community.  Both prices reflect significant increases over the past few months and the last year.  As for the number of monthly sales, they are also showing signs of strength with solid increases across the board.  The average number of days on the market for single-family homes has increased quite a bit over the past few months to about four or five months which simply means that homeowners are not as willing to drop the prices in an effort to sell quickly.  For condominiums, the number of days on the market is much lower at only about two months mainly because there is not a large pool of this type of property available, sellers can plan on selling their homes quickly and with little negotiating.  The right price is the key as there is competition in the area and all homes are very well appointed. 

Buying a Home in Rancho Santa Fe

Potential buyers have a slight amount of leeway in terms of the sale price but not much.  For those interested in condominium or townhome properties, timing is of the essence.  At any given time, there are only a few homes like this on the market so they sell quickly.  For single family homes, buyers have more time to think and look.  Homes stay on the market for about four to five months with a little wiggle room (though not much). 

In terms of distressed property on the market, there are several at any given time but they sell quickly.  For buyers who are interested in this type of real estate, it is imperative to be ready to move when one shows up on the market.  

What to Do

For sellers and buyers in Rancho Santa Fe, the best idea is to work with a licensed and experienced real estate agent.  Our agents are very familiar with the area and, more importantly, homes of this caliber.  We can help you list and market your property to sell if that is what you want or provide you with the information to make a sound and reasonable offer on a home in Rancho Santa Fe. 

This is a wonderful area in which to settle if you have the desire and ability to live this lifestyle.  Homes here are unbelievable and offer the best of everything a homeowner could ever want in a home.  With all the bells and whistles not to mention the magnificent views from all vantage points, homes here are definitely the cream of the crop

Encinitas – Hills of Live Oaks

Encinitas is a coastal beach city located 25 miles north of downtown San Diego.  Known as one of the best surfing locales in the world, Encinitas is an easy going community with an atmosphere that everyone loves when they arrive.  The town encompasses about 20 square miles and features six miles of coastline.  Incorporated in 1986, Encinitas was formed out of combining several communities including “old” Encinitas, “new” Encinitas (Village Park), Leucadia, Cardiff and Olivenhain.

One interesting note of which many are not aware is that Encinitas was once recognized as the flower capital of the world.  Today, the largest industry is growing ornamental flowers, specifically poinsettias.  At Christmastime, in most other parts of the country where residents decorate their homes with poinsettias, more than likely the flowers came from Encinitas!

The Major Attractions of Encinitas

Much of the activities in Encinitas revolve around surfing and other outdoor activities.  Surfers can be spotted catching waves at area beaches including Grandview, Leucadia, D Street and Moonlight Beaches.  Each has its own personality but the common element is that surfers are always there.  Also, when mentioning surfing in this area, it is absolutely necessary to mention surfing at Swami’s in Cardiff as it is one of the top surfing destinations in the world. 

Annual festivals and events are common in Encinitas.  Some of them include the Encinitas Fall Festival held in the downtown area; the Wavecrest Woodie Meet, a large rally of wooden vehicles held in September; and, Oktoberfest held in September as well. 

In addition to festivals and surfing, Encinitas has an excellent arts and cultural influence in the community.  Some of the more popular venues are Lux Art Institute, San Dieguito Heritage Museum and the La Paloma Theater.   The San Diego Botanic Garden features some of the most beautiful garden trails through flowering trees, gorgeous palms and the largest bamboo collection in the country. 

Residents of Encinitas

Encinitas has a population of over 59,000 diverse people.  Included in the population are the die-hard surfers who want to be near the water, professionals who work in and around the area, and those who just love living by the beach.  This is a fairly young crowd with a median age of about 36 to 37 years old and an estimated median income of about $80,000 depending on the statistics. 

Neighborhood Highlights of Encinitas

Encinitas is divided into five areas: Old Encinitas, New Encinitas, Cardiff-by-the-Sea, Leucadia, and Olivenhain.  These were originally separate communities but were combined to create the city of Encinitas.   Old Encinitas is the historic beachside area and features a mix of businesses and housing.  Separated by a low coastal ridge is New Encinitas which is known for golf courses, shopping and larger tract homes.  Leucadia is an older area of tree-lined streets with art galleries, unique shops, restaurants and single-family homes.  Cardiff-by-the-Sea is the oceanfront community in the southernmost section of Encinitas.  Finally, Olivenhain is in the eastern part of Encinitas and is a rural area that features homes and a huge 4-H Club.   List prices vary and start in the mid-$100s for condominiums and townhomes and the mid-$400s for single-family homes.  Just as with most all real estate, as homes are the closer to the coast, the more expensive their list prices.  Condominiums are priced at almost $2 million for property along the Pacific while single-family homes in the same area top $5 million.

Living in Encinitas

Encinitas has a lot to offer its residents.  The beach-life speaks for itself and the arts and culture are abundant.  For those who want to leave the hustle and bustle of the workplace every night and head to a calm and easy going way of life, Encinitas is a perfect spot to land.  Those who live here love their town and all it is.

Encinitas – Is This the Right Time?

In today’s world, buying and selling real estate is a challenge.  Anyone thinking about buying and selling real estate ponders the same question – is it the right time?  For those wanting to be near the Pacific Coast or to live the epitome of the Southern California lifestyle, it is always the time! 

Selling in Encinitas

Sellers must consider several things when determining whether it is a good time to list a home including the sale price of comparable homes, the total number of sales and pending properties in a given month, and how long it takes to sell a home.  Currently, the median sale price of single-family homes in Encinitas sits at about $920K which is up over the past months and past year.  The total number of sales over the past couple of months is flat or down ever so slightly, but the number of pending properties continues to increase which shows there are buyers out there who want or need to move.  The best part is that homes are typically selling within about two months or 65 days.  This is very important for sellers in need of selling due to a move or because they want to buy another home.

For attached homes like condominiums and townhomes, the most recent median sales price is at about $335K.  Over the past few months as well as the past year, the median price has fluctuated but the number of sales has increased substantially over the same time period.  It does take a bit longer to sell a condominium as they stay on the market for an average of about 115 days.

Buying a Home in Encinitas

Home buyers need to act if they want to buy in Encinitas as homes sales are beginning to turn and have shown solid gains over the past year.  While there is still the opportunity to buy at lower prices than several years ago, the tide is turning and will, more than likely, continue to increase.  For those seriously considering buying a home in Encinitas, do not sit on the fence for very long.  The amount of time on them market is not long making it necessary to “pull the trigger” as they say in the sales industry.  There are deals out there for buyers, especially with condominium homes, but it is necessary to make a decision at this point in time before the increases continue.

As for foreclosures and short sales, there is a handful each month.  The total number is on the decline which is great because of the enormous amount of distressed property for the past several years in Southern California. 

Relocating to Encinitas

Encinitas is lucky in that four excellent school districts serve this wonderful place.  This is the kind of information needed for relocating.  Working with our experienced agents who know the area is helpful in that you have the best sources of information at your fingertips.  Not only can we provide you with the most up to date real estate listings, we can also give you our first-hand knowledge of everything involved in relocating to the area.  

Never a Bad Time to Get in the Market

There are definitely advantages and disadvantages in the Encinitas real estate market.  Prices are on the rise but are still not where they used to be.  The biggest advantage in Encinitas is that people have a desire to live the Southern California lifestyle and there is no better place to do that than in Encinitas.

Whether you are buying or selling, our agents know the market and can help craft a plan to list and sell your home or help you find the home that meets and exceeds your needs and desires. Even with distressed property, we know and understand this market, and can give you the latest information should you decide to go that route. 

Encinitas is the ultimate Southern California town.  Living here is the ultimate in an ideal lifestyle.  Be part of it!

Encinitas Real Estate

Welcome to Encinitas – one of the most popular surf scenes in the country! This coastal beach city features some of the best surfing as well as an active community that is friendly and very involved in all that Encinitas has to offer.    Encinitas is truly a Southern California beach town.  With a population of just over 59,000 and an estimated median household income of about $80,000, Encinitas features some of the best property in the area.

Four school districts serve the Encinitas area and include 13 elementary schools, five middle schools and four high schools.  In terms of higher learning the San Elijo Campus of Mira Costa College and Watts Atelier School for the Arts is located in Encinitas.

Neighborhood Highlights of Encinitas

Encinitas was incorporated in 1986 by combining the communities of Old Encinitas, New Encinitas (Village Park), Cardiff-by-the-Sea, Leucadia, and Olivenhain.  The city covers about 20 square miles and includes about six miles of coastline. In terms of real estate, there is definitely something for everyone.

There are many neighborhoods located throughout each of the five sections of Encinitas some of which include a mix of attached and detached homes.  Single-family homes start in the mid-$400s in areas like Encinitas Estates, Cambria and communities in Village Park. Somewhat higher list prices can be found in neighborhoods such as Cantebria, Encinitas Ranch and Pacific Ranch where homes start in the low to mid-$700s and climb from there.  The most affluent communities in Encinitas are considered to be Maravu, the Beacons of Leucadia (new enclave of homes near the beach) and Sandalwood where homes start in the mid-$900s and climb to well over $1 million.  Of course, for estate size homes several of the neighborhoods, list prices run well into the millions as with most similar property in Southern California.

Condominium and townhome communities are abundant in Encinitas and provide an opportunity for first time buyers, buyers seeking second or vacation homes, and investors of rental property to be part of the Encinitas community.  Condominium home start as low as the low to upper-$200s in communities well east of I-5 like High Country Villas and Pacific Pines.  For buyers who have a desire to be closer to the coast, Casitas Del Mar Pacifica and Encinitas Village offer condominium homes starting the mid to upper-$400s.  Townhome communities like Village Park townhomes and the Sand Dollar feature homes starting in the upper-$200s.  Other townhome communities like Leucadia Village have homes starting in the mid-$500s and Seabluffe which are priced from the mid-$800s to over $1 million.  For the hip crowd who wants to be in the center of the action, Pacific Station is comprised of gorgeous condominiums which are situated above retailers in downtown Encinitas and start in the mid-$600s.

The Necessary Information

The most recent information shows that median sale prices for single family homes and condominiums are at about $920K and $340K, respectively. The market is beginning to show signs of rebounding especially with single-family homes.  The total number of monthly sales has increased over the past year with attached and detached homes as have the number of pending properties.  As for the number of days on the market, single-family homes sell within about two months while condominiums and townhomes take a bit longer at about 115 days.

What to Think

Encinitas is beginning to turn around.  This market has something for everyone in terms of real estate.  From condominiums and townhomes for first time buyers to larger homes for those wanting to move up in size or location and those seeking a second or vacation home, the right house can be found in Encinitas at an affordable price.  This is definitely a great place to live!

A Perfect Place to Live

Del Mar is an ideal beach community located in the northern end of San Diego County just north of La Jolla and about 20 miles north of San Diego.  With a population of just over 4,100 people, Del Mar is one of the most desirable spots to live in the US, mainly because of the atmosphere and perfect weather.   This affluent town is home to some of the most beautiful and expensive homes and estates in the metro area as well as country.

Neighborhoods in Del Mar

There are some beautiful neighborhoods in Del Mar each having a unique quality of life.  The homes are, for the most part, impeccably decorated and feature panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and other parts of the area.  Additionally, Del Mar features a nice mix of single-family homes, condominiums and townhomes.  Single-family homes start in the upper-$600s to low-$700s and climb to well over $25 million.  Some of the more affordable neighborhoods like Brisas Del Mar, Pointe Del Mar, and Las Vistas are comprised of contemporary, bungalow and Spanish style homes that start in the low-$800s.  Other neighborhoods like Del Mar Heights, Del Mar Terrace, and Lomas Del Mar feature homes that start at about $900K.  The most expensive homes and estates are located in areas like Beach Colony, Fairbanks Polo Club and Rancho Del Mar where homes start at just over $1 million as well as Sandy Lane where starting prices are at about $4 million.  In the Village and Olde Del Mar, considered to be the downtown area of Del Mar, homes are custom built and priced from just over $1 million to over $7 million depending on the views.

As for condominiums and townhomes, prices are much more reasonably priced starting in the upper $100s like in Del Mar Bluffs and climb to almost $2 million in the Village.  For the most part, condominiums and townhomes are priced from the upper-$400s to $1 million in communities like Del Mar Woods, Spindrift and Del Mar Villas.  These homes are absolutely gorgeous with the most perfect views of the Pacific and other parts of Del Mar. 

The Details of the Del Mar Real Estate Market

Del Mar is a very affluent community and is very much reflected that way with real estate.  Single-family homes have a median price of about $1.2 million.  While prices in Del Mar are slightly slower with their rebounding, the numbers are slowly beginning to turn in a positive direction.  The main areas where this is visible are in terms of the number of sales and pending sales which are showing solid and strong increases over previous months and the last year.  Additionally, the number of days a home stays on the market in Del Mar is about 95 days. 

The numbers for condominium homes are similar in that the prices are slower to rebound than in other areas of San Diego County but the number of sales and pending properties continues to increase each month.  As for the length of time on the market, the average number of days is almost 130 days.  

Del Mar Real Estate Has Much to Offer

For discriminating buyers who have a desire to live in a very upscale area but still want a more laid-back beach lifestyle, Del Mar is THAT place.  It is a close-knit community with many choices for where to live an in what style of home to live.  Nowhere else is quite like this town – an upscale beach town with a “flip flop” attitude.