San Diego Real Estate Insider

Authentic Beach Life in Ocean Beach

Do you ever think about what it would be like to be a beach bum in the truest sense of the word?  Living in Ocean Beach is as close as it comes to living in true-blue beach town.  With an open and relaxing atmosphere, Ocean Beach is exactly the beach town you imagine it would be. The main street, Newport Avenue, features unique, eclectic shops and is just steps from the Pacific Ocean.  In fact, when driving through the business district, you will find there are predominantly individually owned retail businesses along the streets mainly because the community is very opposed to popular corporate retailers and restaurants opening in Ocean Beach. 

Appealing Draws to Ocean Beach

Ocean Beach is full of attractions that are favorites of locals and southern California residents.  One of the most favorite draws is the original Dog Beach after which other coastal areas mirrored their dog beaches.  Another favorite is the Ocean Beach Pier.  Although it is definitely a popular tourist destination, locals can be spotted at one of the shops located along the walk, fishing, or walking the half-mile out to the end of the pier. 

In terms of retail, Newport Avenue and the Ocean Beach Antiques District are true favorites of everyone.  It is easy to spend a whole day meandering through the unique antiques stores and other retail shops finding treasures big and small.

With all that this beach-lover’s paradise has to offer, it is worth noting another key component of Ocean Beach…the “beach flies.”  Beach flies are harmless old men who hang out on the sea wall and love to tell stories living on the beach in days gone by.

In addition, the residents of Ocean Beach flock to annual events like the Christmas Parade, OB Chili Cook-Off, and the annual Fourth of July Fireworks.  These events also attract many San Diego area residents.

OBceans – What the Locals Call Themselves

As an authentic “beach town,” Ocean Beach pulls at the souls of many people whether from the San Diego area or anywhere else.  The desire to live on “island time” is a strong one for some people and, on the west coast of the United States, this is the place to live. Ocean Beach is a true flip flop town that brings out the “barefoot flower child” in each and every person who moves here. Quick facts of the over 12,000 OBceans are that the average age of the residents is about 31 years old; less than 20 percent are married; and, the median household income is just under $50,000.  For the residents of Ocean Beach, like those from most other small, laid back beach towns, they live a very simple life doing fun easy things like hanging at the beach or biking around town when they are not at work. 

Where Everyone Lives in Ocean Beach

Ocean Beach is, for all intents and purposes, a neighborhood in and of itself.  It is comprised of everything from condominiums to small, quaint beach cottages to duplexes to large oceanfront homes.  Favorite areas for Ocean Beach real estate is in the Point Loma area, Fleetridge and Sunset Cliffs.  But no matter where the residents live, they all have an unpretentious attitude and live the same kind of life in this town.

Oh to Be an OBcean

No matter where you come from or what brings you to Ocean Beach, one thing that is true for everyone…you will never want to leave this paradise.  There is nothing like living at or near the coast.  Living in Ocean Beach is something that the residents can try to explain but until you actually live here, you will not understand.  It is a wonderful life and is a shame that not everyone can have the chance to be a beach bum!

Buying or Selling a Home in Southern California’s Surfside Paradise

Located in between Pacific Beach and Ocean Beach, Mission Beach is situated on a sandbar with the Pacific Ocean on the west side and Mission Bay on the east side.  This town is filled with homes, condominiums and townhouses that house locals and vacationers alike.  Mission Beach has become a very popular area over the years and continues to grow.  Many people who buy vacation homes here end up moving to the area permanently because of the lifestyle. 

Selling Your Home in Mission Beach

For sellers, real estate in Mission Beach is a popular commodity.  Investors look seriously at this area because of the number of vacationers during the summer.  For full-time residents, there is a draw to Mission Beach for the laid back lifestyle.  Typically, single-family homes sell within two to three months at a median sale price of about $1.1 million while condominium properties take a month or so longer and have a median sale price of just under $1 million. 

As with most real estate these days, it is always a good idea to work with a real estate agent because of the market conditions as well as the location of the property in Mission Beach.  Our agents are very knowledgeable with Mission Beach real estate and know how to develop a plan to list and sell your property to get the most out of your investment.

Buying Real Estate in Mission Beach

If you have a strong pull towards living at the beach and want a laid back lifestyle, then Mission Beach is the place for you.  There are many available properties in Mission Beach but they go quickly.  Median sale prices are increasing making it a good time to buy.  It is important to know that timing is crucial because homes sell quickly here.  Our agents can provide you with the latest information about homes listed for sale as well as help you get the most home for your investment.

As for foreclosures and short sales, there are opportunities to buy distressed properties at lower prices pop up every now and then.   Any of our agents have the most current updates on distressed properties and can help you find the perfect home for a great deal.

Relocating to Mission Beach

Mission Beach offers the lifestyle that most people consider a pipe dream.  If you are relocating to the San Diego area, visit this true paradise.  There are so many opportunities to own real estate that fits many standards of living.  One thing that is for sure is that once you get to Mission Beach, you do not want to leave.   Any agent at our office can help you with your relocation by providing all the necessary information you need to make the transition as smooth as possible.

Make sure you consider Mission Beach as your new home.  It is such a great place to live with friendly and welcoming people.  This is true beach living like you have never experienced!

Living in Mission Beach

Mission Beach, a community located within the city limits of San Diego, is a classic, beach town situated on a sandbar that is bound by the Pacific Ocean to the west; Mission Bay to the east; Pacific Beach to the north; and, the San Diego River estuary to the south.  It encompasses two miles of ocean front.  With its boardwalk extending the length of the town and the world famous Belmont Park reputation as the hub of the town, Mission Beach’s look is very similar to that of the classic Atlantic Coast beach towns like Coney Island and Atlantic City. 

The population of Mission Beach is about 46,000 with the residents’ average age at about 31 years old.  With an average household income of just under $70,000, the residents enjoy the fruits of their labor participating in all of the beach sports and activities the community has to offer.

Community Highlights

This quaint beach town is comprised of the typical resort area real estate such as condominiums, beach cottages and single family homes mostly situated on the bay front or beach front sides of the town.  It is interesting to note that most of the locals live on the bay side of the town.  Additionally, the area is divided, by the locals, into two sections – North Mission Beach and South Mission Beach. 

“North Mission” is more of the resort part of the community with newly upgraded homes, cottages and condominium homes.  This end also plays home to more of the rental properties as Mission Beach’s popularity continues to grow as a vacation destination for people from the neighboring western states.  Also, this end is closer to the necessary conveniences such as grocers and other businesses located in Pacific Beach.  All of this makes this part of Mission Beach very enticing to investors seeking vacation rental property.

On the south end of Mission Beach, locals are more prevalent than vacationers.  Despite all of the action and events of the Old Mission Beach Athletic Club (OMBAC), “South Mission” is much more subdued than the north end.  This end is defined by the eclectic cottages and large stretch of beach extending from the boardwalk to the Pacific Ocean.  Additionally, fishermen are a frequent site on the jetty which extends out into the San Diego estuary off the southernmost point of Mission Beach. 

An interesting fact about Mission Beach is that it is the most densely developed residential area in San Diego.  It also contains the smallest lots in the entire area as well with each acre containing up to 36 dwellings.  Most of the homes in Mission Beach were built in the 1930s and 1940s with many being renovated and upgraded to offer more modern conveniences.  Some that were built in the early 1920s were designed as airplane bungalows and featured that bungalow style with a second floor added as upstairs bedrooms or lots.   More and more, older homes on properties are being gutted in order to build newer more contemporary homes to attract vacationers.

The Real Estate Market in Mission Beach

Over the last six months, the median sales price for single-family homes in Mission Beach has been about $1.1 million with condominium and other attached property selling at around $900K.  The average number of days on the market for each is about 69 days for single-family homes and 150 for condominiums.

The north end of Mission Beach is very popular with real estate investors because of its popularity with vacationers as is the beach side.  Locals tend to gravitate to the bay side as well as the south end of the community.

List prices of condominium homes in Mission Beach start in the upper-$200s for small, dated units to about $3 million for newly built condominium homes along the beach with perfect views.  As for single family homes, list prices typically start around the $500K mark and climb to well over $10 million for elegant homes with views to kill.  The average list price is usually around $1.1 million for single family homes and about $1 million for condominium and other attached dwellings. 

Strong Consideration for Mission Beach

Mission Beach real estate appeals to investors and those who want to slow down and enjoy a simple beach life.  With lots of real estate that have strong rental histories and perfect property for full time residents or those wanting a weekend or summer home, this area has something to offer everyone.  Make sure you check out Mission Beach….you may never want to leave!

Mission Beach – Classic Beach Living

Also known as “the Strand,” Mission Beach is a community located within the San Diego city limits that is built on a sandbar between the Pacific Ocean and Mission Bay.  This small community measures 50 blocks long and just three blocks wide and is “beach living” in its truest form.  It is often compared to classic beach towns on the other side of the country like Coney Island and Atlantic City. 

Attractions of Mission Beach

Mission Beach is most widely known for its boardwalk and amusement park, Belmont Park.  This landmark features traditional and modern rides as well as the huge world famous Big Dipper roller coaster, the Wave House wave pool, and other thrilling rides in addition to lots of places to eat and drink.   It is such a fun park and attracts even the most settled residents of the community…not to mention visitors from all over.

In addition to the park, Mission Beach is one of the best areas for beach goers.  The water is ideal for swimming, surfing, and all sorts of water activities.  A popular spot for divers is situated a half-mile off the southern end of Mission Beach where old shipwrecks were dropped into the water to create artificial reefs in an effort to preserve sea life.

Because the love for the beach and beach oriented sports, Mission Beach and the Old Mission Beach Athletic Club (OMBAC) play host to the Over the Line tournament held twice a year as well as the annual “Coming Out” Party which raise money for charity.  The OMBAC is a club with about 500 active members who support several athletic, social and charitable associations in the community.

Residents of Mission Beach

People who live in or move to Mission Beach have one common characteristic among them…they want to live a beach lifestyle.  Living here gives them that opportunity.  Mission Beach is known for its simplicity and laidback way of doing things.  Because of this, the residents are a diverse group of free spirited artists, writers and such as well as sports enthusiasts, families and middle aged professionals who have a yen to feel younger. 

Neighborhoods

Locals in Mission Beach refer to the community in two sections – North Mission Beach and South Mission Beach.  Each area features a slower beach lifestyle but more homes are located on the north end of the area.  The north end also plays home to shops, restaurants, smoothie bars (of course a California beach has smoothie bars!) and fun night life.  On the southern end, residents find a similar look but an even slower pace of life.  There fishermen casting their lines off the jetty at the southernmost end is a common occurrence.

Loving Life in Mission Beach

Without a doubt, the best way to slow down and enjoy a simple way of life is to move to a beach community.  And, Mission Beach is a beach town in the truest sense of the word.  This area is probably one of the most laid back areas in all of southern California…heck, the whole state.  Take some time to visit this area and see what all the fuss is about.  After a few days here, you will definitely want to move or stay here for the rest of your life.

Buying and Selling Real Estate in La Jolla

La Jolla is a popular town in Southern California as well as the country for the more affluent real estate buyer.  This charming town is a beautiful place with the most picturesque views of the Pacific Ocean and features the most unique shops and restaurants in several of the small communities within the town itself.

Selling Your Home in La Jolla

Whether you are moving out of town or simply want to upgrade your home, the latest statistics show that it is a good time if you are considering selling your home in La Jolla.  Because the market showed a solid month to month increase of 21 percent in terms of median sold price and 15 percent increase for the same year to year, the market is making a comeback.  Additionally, the number of days on the market is at about 130 days which shows that homes stay on the market for only a few months.  There are definitely buyers out there for properties of this caliber.  Our agents know how to list, market and sell a home those in La Jolla.  Give us a call to devise a plan for you.

Buying in La Jolla

Now is the time to buy a home in La Jolla, if you have that ability.  The market has begun to turn around and because the median sale prices have shown solid increases, serious buyers need to make the move before the prices increase become much more substantial.  There are several options from which to choose in terms of style, size and view although most any home in La Jolla has a nice view.  While there are condominium homes in La Jolla, they are not as plentiful as single family homes so if that is what you want, take advantage of it when you see it.  They sell within three to four months and do not come available as frequently as single family homes do.

In terms of distressed properties, there are always several on the market for sale.  If you do not mind the red tape that accompanies buying a distressed property and have patience, this is an excellent way to buy a home in La Jolla at a lesser price than normally paid. 

Our agents are very knowledgeable about La Jolla and can provide you with the guidance to buy a home in this wonderful paradise.  Give us a call and we will get started helping you find the perfect home.

Relocating to La Jolla

If you are relocating to Southern California and want to live in an exclusive area, La Jolla is the place to be.  This is undoubtedly the most luxurious yet laid back and friendly town in all of Southern California.  With so many options for your residence, you will definitely find your dream home here.  Plus our agents can help you with your relocation to the area in terms of the logistics of setting up a home here as well.

Make the Decision

La Jolla is one of the most beautiful locales in Southern California.  With median sale prices on the incline, it is a great time for sellers and buyers.  The thing to remember is that once you have made the decision on a home be ready to act. 

The Cream of the Crop – Real Estate in La Jolla

The real estate market in La Jolla showcases some of the most beautiful and desirable estates in the country.  As one of California’s most popular resort towns, this picturesque community features some of the most expensive homes in the country.  Situated on a hillside in Southern California, La Jolla features some of the most charming cottages, sprawling estates set along the Pacific Coast and everything in between.  The common denominator of all of these properties is their above average price tag.  In fact, in 2009, La Jolla had the highest average sale price in the United States at $2.1 million.

Neighborhoods in La Jolla

La Jolla offers communities with different features that attract many different types of buyers.  While all of the neighborhoods in this affluent community are considered to be exclusive, some are more so and come with a much higher price tag than others.  The homes and condominiums priced on the lower end are still deemed to be priced higher than most communities around the metro area.

List prices and home values are, for the most part, based on the homes’ views of the water and San Diego skyline.  With that in mind, the most exclusive areas of La Jolla with the best views are Country Club, Hidden Valley, La Jolla Farms and La Jolla Shores and La Jolla Heights where single-family homes start around the $1 million mark and climb into the tens of millions of dollars.  It is not uncommon for real estate in La Jolla Shores to top $20 million.   Condominium homes in these same neighborhoods tend to start in the middle to upper-$700s but can be found at the half-million dollar mark making it more affordable for some to have a La Jolla address.  Two other coast areas of La Jolla which are probably the most exclusive, are Lower Hermosa and Muirlands where, when they are available for sale, will start in the mid-$1 millions in Lower Hermosa and $2.5 million in Muirlands.

Oceanfront communities like Bird Rock and Beach-Barber are more eclectic, beach-y communities where single family homes start at about $1 million and go up depending on the view.  For condominium homes, some start as low as $350K and climb.  It is important to note that the residents have a very free and easy attitude in these areas especially in Bird Rock where the beach here is clothing optional.

Heading south and east of the coastal and downtown areas of La Jolla, communities like Soledad South, La Jolla Mesa, and La Jolla Village, sit on and around Mt. Soledad feature beautiful views of downtown La Jolla and San Diego.  Listing prices in these areas start a good bit under $1 million for single-family homes and under $500K for condominium homes.

Considered to be the “most affordable” communities in La Jolla are Upper Hermosa, Muirlands West and La Jolla Alta.  These neighborhoods have larger homes that start just over $1 million and increase from there.  Much of the charm and appeal of Muirlands West and Upper Hermosa stem from their close proximity to the shopping and dining in Bird Rock.  La Jolla Alta is an excellent neighborhood for families because of its closeness to the area’s top schools.

The Important Facts of La Jolla Real Estate

The overall median sold price for homes in La Jolla is about $1.1 million based on the most recent statistics.  This represents a 15 percent increase over last year.  On average, listings stay on the market for about 130 days give or take a day which for homes of this caliber is not a long time.  Condominium homes do tend to sell a little faster but not by much time at all.

Consider La Jolla

La Jolla is a perfect consideration for a home if you are one who wants to live in the most beautiful towns in the country and if money is not a concern.  With the majority of homes having spectacular views of the Coast, the skylines or Mt. Soledad, it is a true pleasure to live in La Jolla…not to mention all of the fun that exists here.  Make sure La Jolla real estate is on the short list if all of these qualities are desires you have in a home.  

La Jolla…the Jewel of Southern California

La Jolla is a gorgeous city located in Southern California and is surrounded by ocean bluffs and beaches.  This affluent, hilly seaside community is located in the northern city limits of San Diego along seven miles of the picturesque Pacific Coast.  In fact, incorporated as part of San Diego in 1850, La Jolla was one of San Diego’s first neighborhoods to be settled. 

La Jolla is well known across the country as having some of the most spectacular weather.  Temperatures rarely dip below 50 degrees in the winter or top 90 degrees in the summer.  Typically, in the winter, temperatures average in the upper 60s in the winter months and the upper 70s or low 80s in the summer.  Added to the ideal temperatures is the incredible Pacific Ocean which abuts the western edge of La Jolla and makes the town a perfect spot for beach lovers to live.  During the summer and fall months, the beaches are overflowing with beach goers looking for sun, surfing and other water activities.  In the winter and spring months, the coastline becomes very foggy and the surf crashes into the rocks with fierce power.  None the less, the Pacific coast is still extraordinary. 

More Than Golf

Many people associate La Jolla with world class golf because of the combination of the ideal weather, beautiful courses and, most importantly, the annual PGA Tournament held at Torrey Pines.  But La Jolla has so much more to offer its residents including superb shopping and dining, excellent beaches, parks, and one of the two locations of the Museum of Contemporary Art. 

Prospect Street, the “main drag” of La Jolla, features so many unique shops as well as top notch restaurants with delicious food.  In addition to Prospect Street, other popular areas for shopping and dining are the community of Bird Rock and the Village of La Jolla.

Stepping outside the obvious attractions of La Jolla, there are so many areas for residents and tourists to explore including Mt. Soledad, the area’s highest point with panoramic views of all of San Diego and the Pacific Ocean; the coves and caves along the Coast; Torrey Pines State Park; Scripps Park; Birch Aquarium, and more. 

So Many Nice Neighborhoods

The communities located throughout La Jolla are filled with the loveliest homes along charming streets from small beach-y cottages to elegant oceanfront estates.  La Jolla is most known for its real estate as it has some of the most exclusive homes in the country.  There are about 16 communities scattered throughout the entire La Jolla area with the most expensive homes situated along the Coast in neighborhoods like La Jolla Farms, La Jolla Shores and Beach-Barber.  As you head east, other lovely communities like La Jolla Village, La Jolla Heights and Soledad South.  And finally, for those who want to be closer to San Diego, Bird Rock, La Jolla Alta, and La Jolla Mesa are ideal communities.

The Resident La “Jollians”

The people of La Jolla love where they live because they love.  In addition to the views and the close proximity of the water, they settle here because they are far enough from the hustle and bustle of San Diego but like the idea of being only 15 minutes from the downtown area.  The median age of the residents is about 38 years with an average household income being about $144,000.  Most of the residents are professionals and educators as the University of California – San Diego is adjacent to the northern end of La Jolla.

A Wonderful Place to Live

There is probably no better area of the country than San Diego in which to live.  To get more specific, La Jolla is the probably the most perfect place to live if you can afford the multi-million dollar price tags.  With views of water and city skylines, it is no wonder that the residents are set on spending the rest of their lives there or that so many people who visit end up moving to La Jolla.

Picture Perfect Downtown San Diego

The downtown San Diego area has undergone unprecedented revitalization over the past 20 plus years.  As the center of one of the most amazing cities in the country, downtown San Diego gives its residents and visitors the best of everything the eighth largest city in the country has to offer yet maintains a cozy, small town atmosphere.  The look of the city is amazing with a mixture of contemporary skyscrapers and turn of the century buildings that have been renovated to house offices, retail stores and wonderful restaurants.  Additionally, lots of parks and green space make San Diego a picture perfect metropolitan city.

The Major Attractions of Downtown

Downtown San Diego is home to several major attractions as well as some of the best shopping and dining in the United States.  Major attractions offer something for everyone.  Military buffs like visiting the Midway Aircraft Carrier Museum and the San Diego Maritime Museum.  Other locals enjoy hitting Mercato Little Italy’s Farmers Market every Saturday to pick up the best and freshest local fruits and vegetables available year round in this part of the country.  Another attraction, and maybe one of the most popular and well-known, is PETCO Park, home to the San Diego Padres. 

For dining and shopping in downtown San Diego, Horton Plaza and Seaport Village are two very popular spots which attract visitors and local residents as do the restaurants throughout the Gaslamp Quarter.  Art galleries and museums are plentiful in many of the neighborhoods within the downtown area.  A favorite of art enthusiasts is the Evenings in East Village which is a gallery crawl of sorts throughout the popular East Village area. 

As for annual events that are among the favorites of the locals are several parades including the Big Bay Balloon Parade,  which is held in conjunction with the Holiday Bowl; the Martin Luther King Jr. Day Parade and Festival; and, the Parade of Lights featuring holiday-decorated boats on the Bay.  Other favorite annual events that take place are Little Italy’s Mission Federal Artwalk in April and Summer Pops Concerts at the Embarcadero.

Neighborhoods of Downtown San Diego

Downtown San Diego is broken down into several neighborhoods each with its own character and draw for residents.  Because each has its own charm, below is a brief description of each neighborhood.

East Village:  As the largest district in downtown San Diego, this neighborhood is a rapidly growing, up and coming neighborhood.  The area was once a warehouse district and began to be revitalized when the San Diego Padres new stadium opened its doors in 2004.  Now the district is home to tons of shopping, restaurants and nightlife.  In addition, East Village is also known as San Diego’s Arts district as it is spotted with artists’ homes, galleries and studios.  Finally, the Harbor Drive Pedestrian Bridge provides easy access from the Harbor area to East Village.

Banker’s Hill:  Also known as Park West, Banker’s Hill is primarily a pedestrian-friendly, residential area filled with upscale Victorian mansions and beautiful condominium buildings.  One notable highlight is that the flight pattern from the airport passes over Banker’s Hill.  It is very common to see residents watching planes fly overhead.

Columbia:  As a neighborhood filled with healthy development, the Columbia neighborhood is very much a commercial neighborhood with affluent high-rise condominiums scattered throughout the area.  Because it is located on the waterfront, Columbia is also home to the Midway Aircraft Carrier Museum and the San Diego Maritime Museum.

Core District:  As the central business district, the Core houses San Diego’s central government as well as major financial and corporate offices.  Throughout the area, there is a mix of architecturally modern buildings and historic buildings that are being restored for retail, residential and commercial space.  In terms of entertainment, the San Diego Civic Theatre and Copley Symphony Hall are located in the Core District.

Gaslamp Quarter:  This district is probably the most famous neighborhood in the downtown area if not all of San Diego.  Home to more than 100 restaurants and nightclubs, the Gaslamp Quarter is a big tourist destination.  It is listed on the National Register of Historic Places with a perfect mix of historical and modern development.  Annual events like the Taste of Gaslamp, Mardi Gras in Gaslamp and ShamROCK are huge draws to the area. 

Little Italy:  Settled in the 1920s by Italian families who worked in the tuna industries, Little Italy is a thriving and popular neighborhood.  In fact, other cities’ Little Italy districts use this neighborhood as a model.  Several festivals and events such as Little Italy Festa held on Columbus Day weekend and the weekly Mercato Little Italy’s Farmer’s Market are huge draws for residents from all over the metro area.

Marina District:  This district is undoubtedly the most desirable and beautiful area in all of downtown San Diego.  Prior to the 1980s, the entire area consisted of warehouses and empty lots.  Now, high-rise condominiums line the waterfront with tree lined streets surround Pantoja Park and lead residents eastward to wonderful cafés, shopping and cozy bed and breakfasts.   Additionally, the Martin Luther King Promenade and Seaport Village provide more character to this neighborhood.

Cortez Hill:  At the north end of downtown San Diego is Cortez Hill, named after the famed El Cortez Hotel.  This district features perfectly gorgeous 360 degree views.   This is a very intimate, pedestrian friendly neighborhood is home to shops and sidewalk cafes along Fifth and Sixth Avenues as well as a gateway to the waterfront via Ash Street. 

Subtle Sophistication

Downtown San Diego is all about subtle sophistication and having something for everyone.  It is a beautiful city and features so many attractions.  No wonder it is so common to hear people say “I would love to live there” after a trip to this gorgeously perfect city!

DOWNTOWN SAN DIEGO – CITY LIFE WITH LOTS OF CHARACTER

For those who love perfect weather ALL OF THE TIME and want to live in the middle of the hustle and bustle of a major metropolitan area, San Diego is the place to be!  With the center of banking, government, and culture being in the Downtown area, living in downtown is ideal if you want the convenience of being within walking distance to work as well as popular attractions, restaurants and other conveniences.  Because Downtown San Diego features eight individual neighborhoods, residents have their pick of a different atmosphere and appeal.  

Selling Your Home in Downtown San Diego

As the popularity of San Diego continues to grow so does that of the Downtown area.  The area has held on to the character of this city amidst all the revitalization and redevelopment of the districts located in Downtown.  And, because of the increase in residential real estate in virtually every district of Downtown, selling your home in this urban oasis is fairly painless.  The latest statistics from redfin.com suggest that the overall median sale price is around $320K and is up over 27 percent from last month!  This is a great sign that people are in the market to buy.  Homes listed for sale stay on the market an average number of 57 days.  It is important to note that while the majority of listed properties are condominium properties, there a handful of single-family homes listed that tend to stay on the market a bit longer at about 126 days, according to the latest statistics.  Let one of our top notch agents help you devise a plan to list and sell your home in Downtown San Diego so that you get the most out of your most important investment.

The Decision to Buy a Home in Downtown San Diego

Buying a home in the Downtown area of San Diego is an exciting prospect.  There is so much to do within the unique districts.  Because there are so many options, there is pretty much property to fit every budget.  As a prospective buyer, you need to remember that property does not stay on the market for long especially in the more popular condominium buildings.  Therefore, if you know where you want to be, it is important to be ready to move so that your dream home is yanked out from under you.  Our agents have the very latest information and can keep you in the loop with what is available.  Working with us will afford you to be ahead of the curve.

If distressed property interests you, then know that there are always foreclosures and short sale listings on the market in the Downtown area.  Again, let one of our agents work with you to help you through this tricky and tedious process.

Relocating to San Diego?

Our agents are excellent resources in relocating to the San Diego area.  The Downtown area is perfect for those who are on the go, work hard and want to enjoy the conveniences of businesses and activities close to home.  We can give you all of the information you need to facilitate your relocation efforts so that you begin your life in San Diego with a smile on your face.

A Great Move

If you have the opportunity to relocate to San Diego or simply want a change in your lifestyle, the Downtown area of San Diego is a perfect place to be.  Constantly undergoing development and revitalization, the Downtown area is booming and provides excitement and activity enveloped in a warm and friendly environment.  

Greetings from San Diego!

Welcome to San Diego – the second largest city in San Diego and the eighth largest in the United States with a population of over 1.3 million people.  Located on the Pacific Coast in southern California, San Diego sits adjacent to the Mexican border.  It also boasts a perfectly mild year-round climate with highs in the winter months hitting the high 60s and high 70s in the summer months. 

San Diego is home to several military bases for the United States Navy, the Coast Guard and the Marine Corp each having stations located throughout the entire San Diego Metro area.  With its natural deep water harbor, San Diego boasts the largest naval fleet of ships in the world.  In fact, the United States Navy is the area’s number one employer.  San Diego relies strongly on the Navy, the other arms of the military, and the strong presence of defense contractors to provide a strong economic base.

Fun Activities for Locals in San Diego

While everyone loves the “touristy” things to do in San Diego like the San Diego Zoo and Zoo Safari Park, professional sporting events, several top notch golf courses, and Sea World San Diego, locals have other activities that draw them into the different communities of the metro area.  There is so much to do here that it is easy to see why locals love living here and people want to move here.

First and foremost, over 70 miles of Pacific coastline draw locals out for days of sunning, surfing and all sorts of water sports.  To that point, another one of a kind activity is heading up to the Torrey Pines to hike, bike or even strap on a glider to fly off cliffs and out over the Pacific Ocean.  Balboa Park offers over 15 museums, several art galleries and historical sites to history and arts buffs.  A summer favorite is the Humphrey’s Concerts in the Park where A-List musicians play at the small 1,400 seat outdoor venue situated right on San Diego Bay.  Still, one more favorite that is well worth mentioning is the Farmer’s Market held every Saturday year round in Little Italy. 

There are so many more activities and things to do in San Diego.  No wonder San Diego is listed in the #2 spot of America’s Most Playful Cities according to Sperling’s Best Places. 

Residents

As stated at the beginning, the city of San Diego has a population of over 1.3 million people while the entire metro area totals almost 2.9 million people.  This enormous group of people is very diverse in its makeup and comes from all walks and cultures of life.  From residents who are natives of San Diego to transplants from other parts of the country and globe, San Diego is always a huge draw.

The median household income is about $67K (2010 US Census) which represents an increase of about 45 percent from that of the 2000 Census at just under $46K.  Much of the economy of San Diego is driven by military and defense, tourism and international trade and manufacturing. 

Neighborhoods

San Diego has a broad spectrum of real estate opportunities to fit just about any budget.  The metro area is divided into seven areas that are comprised of about 18 cities and smaller communities: San Diego Coastal; San Diego Central; North County Inland; North County Coastal; East County; Downtown; Central; and, South County.  Each area has something different to offer but most have many options in different price ranges.  For example, because its location to the coast, the San Diego Coastal area mostly features properties in the upper end of the spectrum in terms of list prices whereas North County Inland offers property in pretty much every price range.  List prices in some of the communities within each area start as low as $50K for condominium homes and single family homes, and can climb to over $60 million as in a community in the North Coastal region. 

The best plan is to work with an experienced and knowledgeable real estate agent who can help you meet your objectives whether buying or selling in the San Diego Metro area.  Our agents know this area and have the most up-to-date tools and information to craft a plan for your success.

Oh…To Live in San Diego

San Diego has it all….perfect weather…perfect atmosphere…and perfect places to live.  If you do not find it in San Diego, it does not exist.  There is so much going on here and with so many communities and cities in the metro area, residents can be as much or little a part of the action as they want.