The San Diego Real Estate Insider Blog

San Diego real estate market trends, valuable news about short sales, including foreclosure information in the San Diego county plus much more.

March 17, 2012

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.

March 9, 2012

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!

March 9, 2012

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.  

March 4, 2012

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. 

March 4, 2012

San Diego Real Estate – A Home for Every Buyer

It is easy to see why people love living in San Diego so much.  As the second largest city in California and the eighth largest in the United States, San Diego has much to offer in terms of real estate.  From some of the most magnificent oceanfront estates to smaller, more modest condominiums in an outlying city in the metro area, there is definitely property to fit every budget. 

Many areas in the San Diego metro are filled with history and character which is frequently found in much of the architecture and feel of neighborhoods.  Other areas showcase newly developed communities with modern amenities that draw homeowners to them.  For any homeowner living in or moving to San Diego, the ideal home is waiting in one of the desirable communities in the metro area.

San Diego at a Glance

The San Diego metro area is divided into six locales in an effort to make the whole area more navigable.   Each area features residential property within a broad spectrum of price ranges to accommodate most any budget.

North County Coastal:  This region of the metro area is located in the northern most part and is closer to the western side of the area along the shore.  The largest city in this region is Oceanside with a population of 180,000 and communities with list prices anywhere from just over $50K for condominium homes and $100K for single family homes to over $4 million.  Other areas in this region have homes similarly priced well into the multi-million dollars such as Carlsbad and Del Mar.  The median sale price for single family homes is about $400K and $255K for condominium homes with the number of days on the market (DOM) at 86 and 92 days, respectively.

North County Inland:  North of downtown but more inland is the region known as “North County Inland.”  The communities in this section are small to medium sized communities and feature more widely known towns like Escondido and San Marcos.  Single family homes have a median sale price of about $345K while that of condominiums about $193K.  The number of days on the market for each is right at about 95 days.    List prices start just below $50K to the very large multi-million dollars.

San Diego Central:  This area is just east of the major downtown area of San Diego with small communities like Mission Valley, Mission Hills and others.  List prices start at just over $50K for condominium homes and climb to almost $5 million for homes in more affluent communities.

San Diego Coastal:  This area includes downtown to La Jolla along the coast.  All of the communities and towns in this region are smaller in size and are part of the City of San Diego.     Much of the area is made up of military families as two bases are located in this area and south of the city.  Additionally, there are home priced in affordable communities as well as high end luxury estates.  List prices start as low as the mid $80s in Clairemont to almost $30 million in La Jolla. 

East County:  East County is the more rural area of the San Diego metro area.  The largest city is El Cajon with over 100,000 people living there.   Overall, the most recent sale price of in this region of the metro area is about $295K for single family homes and just under $150K for condominium homes.  List prices start under $100K in areas like El Cajon and climb to over $2 million in areas like Alpine and La Mesa.  

South County:  Also referred to as South Bay, this is the southernmost part of the San Diego metro area and includes Imperial Beach, Chula Vista, National City and other small communities.  This region has a very diverse population.  Homes start around $50K and climb to over $2 million.  The median home price in South Bay is about $335K for single family homes and $205K for condominium homes with the number of days on the market at about 88 days for single family homes and 101 for condominiums. 

Something for Everyone

This area has something to offer every homebuyer’s budget.  The most notable characteristic about each region is that although one or two regions may be more heavily populated with a certain demographic, every area has real estate in all price ranges.  San Diego real estate has it all. 

March 4, 2012

San Diego Real Estate – There are Always Buyers and Sellers

Real estate in San Diego is abundant and offers something for everyone.  Divided into six regions, residents have the ability to live closer to the Pacific Coast or further inland surrounded by beautiful canyons.  In the San Diego metro area, everyone can find a home to fit their needs and desires from the most luxurious estates to the ideal affordable homes. 

Selling Your Home in San Diego

The great thing about the real estate market is that there are always potential buyers ready to buy. The latest statistics show that the overall median sale price in San Diego is right around $300K with the average number of days on the market sitting at about 54 days.  Most home owners needing or even wanting to sell can feel confident that their homes will sell within about two months depending on where they price it and the level of competition in the same area. 

The East and South County regions show the most growth, and well, the only growth.  According to the latest statistics from the San Diego Union Tribune, overall home sales were up between 6 and 7 percent.  The other regions showed no increase or even a small decrease.  But buyers are still interested in all areas.

Because the market is competitive, a real estate agent can help you navigate the waters toward selling your home in a timely manner.  One of our qualified and experienced agents who know the market can give you advice and provide you with a sound plan so that you get the most out of your biggest investment. 

Buying in San Diego

There are so many options in this area for home buyers.  From older homes with tons of character to homes in newly developed communities or homes with a gorgeous view of the water to homes out in one of the beautiful canyons, San Diego has it all. 

Whether you are a first time buyer or are interested in upgrading to a larger home, now is the time.  Homeowners are beginning to think more seriously about selling their homes and more buyers are coming to the table but there are still great buys out there. 

Distressed properties, including foreclosures and short sales, are out there as well in solid numbers and in all areas.  It is very possible for those interested in these properties to find a good buy on a nice home.  As with any distressed property, it just takes patience and attention to detail to work through the process.

Any of our agents has access to the most up to date information about real estate in the San Diego market.  Working with us can give buyers the confidence in knowing that they are getting the most out of their investment. 

Relocating to San Diego

Let any of our agents help you with your relocation to this magnificent area of the country.  We know the San Diego market and can show you the best communities to fit your needs and desires.  San Diego is truly paradise and we want to share it with you.

Whatever You Want to Do

Whether you are buying or selling, you can be rest assured that it will happen here.  For sellers, there are many people wanting to move to or around the area.  For buyers, there is a home in every price range.  Take some time and explore the regions of San Diego.  You will be surprised and excited by what is out there!

Feb. 24, 2012

Imperial Beach – North of the Border

If you are interested in the beach scene and living a laid back lifestyle, then Imperial Beach is the place for you!  Located just five miles north of the Mexican border, Imperial Beach is the southernmost beach city in Southern California as well as the southernmost city in the United States.   It also connects to Coronado by the Silver Strand.  With a population of about 26,000 people, Imperial Beach is a very young community with a median age of only 29.  What’s more is that only nine percent are over 65 years old.  Imperial Beach is often referred to as San Diego’s most affordable beach community with a median income of over $44,000. 

Fun Things to Do

Imperial Beach is a true, blue beach town with the ultimate beach activities.  Visitors and residents love beach sports like surfing, volleyball, skim boarding, and much, much more.  Because this is such a surfing mecca, one of the most popular attractions is at Pier Plaza.  Along the plaza, surfboard benches with plaques line the pier and recount the influence the area’s most enormous waves had on surfing.  Additionally, surfers can be seen at Boca Rio Beach Break because it boasts San Diego County’s best surfing.

Border Field State Park is the southernmost beach on the entire west coast of the country.  At this park, beachgoers can sit next to beachgoers in Mexico just across the “line in the sand.”  Other highlights of the community are a classic car show on the beach and, a true favorite, Annual Dog Surfing Contest.  Other activities include the weekly Imperial Beach Farmer’s Market at Pier Plaza is also a favorite for residents and tourists as well as the one and only South Bay Drive-In – San Diego County’s ONLY ocean-view drive-in theatre! 

Residents

The residents of Imperial Beach are, for the most part, young and care-free.  They love the beach and love the easy going lifestyle of living in a beachfront community.  Additionally, because of the US Navy Landing Field and other area naval bases, Imperial Beach is home to a lot of military personnel.  When visiting Imperial Beach, it is easy to see why the residents love living in a town where flip flops are a norm as is perfect weather with highs ranging from 68 degrees in the winter months to 75-76 degrees in the summer months.

Neighborhoods

While there are not true “subdivisions” in Imperial Beach, homes are described in terms of their views and proximity to the beach.  Pretty much all homes are within walking distance to the coast and downtown Imperial Beach.  This is exactly what you imagine when you think of a classic old-style beach community.  Homes are classified as single-family, condominiums and two-four unit structures that are designed as residential income properties.  Many homeowners who live in the duplex style homes live on one side and rent the other side to others. 

Living the Dream

Everyone has a hidden desire or “pipe dream” to live in a beach town and live kind of like a beach bum.  If this is a dream, it can be very much a reality for many people.   As a very affordable beach community, Imperial Beach provides a simple, laid back life that so many would envy. 

Feb. 24, 2012

At Home in Imperial Beach

When you think of the classic beach community, think Imperial Beach.  This “old California” style oceanfront town is loaded with charm and history with a little added contemporary flair.  With such a perfect climate all year long, it is definitely a top spot to live in the San Diego area as well as Southern California. 

Imperial Beach residents have the options of living in single family detached homes, condominiums or multi-family homes usually with two to four units in one structure.  In addition to residents who live here full time, there are many properties that are owned by real estate investors who put these homes into rental programs for vacationers.

Imperial Beach Real Estate

Imperial Beach is not a place for developed communities and neighborhoods.  Instead, real estate property is described in terms of its proximity to the beach, the bay and downtown Imperial Beach.  Because it is such a laid back town, the residents want the ability to walk to town or the beach more than anything else.

Single Family Homes:  There are lots of single-family homes in the Imperial Beach area.  From small beach cottages to oceanfront homes, this area has what you want.  List prices range from as low as the mid-$100s to over $1 million for oceanfront homes along Seacoast Drive and Ocean Lane.   Because Imperial Beach is a small town, all homes are close to everything in town.  As one of the most affordable beach communities in San Diego County metro area, the median sale price is just over $240K with the average number of days on the market being about 80 days.

Condominiums:  There are several condominium communities in Imperial Beach.  One bedroom condos start just over $100K at complexes like Sands Pointe and South Coronado Shores.  Other communities like Imperial Beach Club and Cortez Condos offer more luxury starting in the high-$400s and climb up to about $700K.  The median sale price of condos is about $115K and stay on the market for about 75 days.

Multi-Family Structures:  These homes are, for the most part, rental properties.  Most are two- to four-unit structures and are, just like every other home, within a short walk of the shore.  It is not uncommon for a property owner to live in one of the units while renting out the others.  Multi-family homes usually go under contract within about 120 days and sell in the upper $300s and more. 

Great Place to Live and Affordable

Imperial Beach is such a fun place to live especially for those who enjoy a much laid back lifestyle where shorts and flip flops are the norm.   This is an ideal locale, as well, to own real estate in a beach community at such affordable prices.  Check out Imperial Beach if these are your desires.

Feb. 24, 2012

Imperial Beach – Beach Living Within Your Means

When you think of living in a Southern California beach town, you think of very expensive, affluent areas like Coronado that are out of reach for most of the general public. Think again…Imperial Beach, a small beach community just south of Coronado, is a true-blue, dyed in the wool classic beach town.  With everything within walking distance, people who want a laid back lifestyle where flip flops are the norm must come to Imperial Beach.

Selling Your Home in Imperial Beach

For those moving to other parts of the county, or country for that matter, selling your home in Imperial Beach is not a hard task.  With the most recent figures showing the overall median sale price for single-family homes, condominium homes and two- to four-unit dwellings at about $175K, many interested buyers and investors are looking more seriously at Imperial Beach.  Single family homes show a median sale price of $258K which is a nice uptick of 11 percent from the previous month.  Our agents are very familiar and knowledgeable about real estate in Imperial Beach and can help you list and sell your home in a timely manner allowing you to get the most out of your investment.

Buying a Home in Imperial Beach

Imperial Beach is such a fun place to be especially for the young crowd. This area is the perfect opportunity for first time buyers to get their “feet wet” literally and figuratively!  With a median sale price under $200K, buyers can live the ultimate beach lifestyle and be the envy of all of their friends.  The overall average of days on the market is about 75 days so it is necessary to have all of your ducks in a row and be ready to sign a contract when you find what you want because if you delay, it is likely that another buyer will swoop in and buy the property right out from under you.  Remember there are a lot of choices here to buy in terms of type and style of property.  If you are not ready for all of the responsibilities that come with a single family home, Imperial Beach has several condominium and townhome complexes where much of the regular maintenance is handled for you.

There are several foreclosures and short sales around the area where you can get a great home at an incredible price. Just as with many distressed properties, some may need a little work while others need more renovations.  The best part is that most can be easily restored to beautiful homes.  Buyers just need to be patient and be at the right place at the right time.  Our agents can provide you with the most current updates on distressed properties and can help you find the perfect home for a great deal.

Considering Imperial Beach for Your Relocation

As we said before, Imperial Beach affords many the opportunities to own real estate in a classic old-style beach community where life is always good. There are lots of properties awaiting the right buyers whether they are buying a home or investing in rental property. Take a look at Imperial Beach and see all that it has in store for you. If you are relocating to the area for work or simply want to slow down to a simpler life, this is the area for you.

Feb. 21, 2012

San Diego’s “Crowned” Jewel

Coronado, Spanish for “the Crowned One,” is the jewel of the San Diego metro area.  This quaint and affluent resort city is known for its old style mansions, exquisite dining and sparkly white sand beaches.  In fact, the beaches of Coronado are always on Top 10 lists of beaches in the United States.  Living in Coronado is the ultimate in privileged lifestyles.  

As a younger community where the median age is about 34 years old, Coronado is also a fairly well-educated community with almost 50 percent having a bachelor’s degree and where the median household income of over $90K.  Another interesting tidbit about the area to note is that this is an excellent area for single women!  For every 100 women, there are 150 men!  Ladies, what are you waiting for!

Attractions

There is so much to do in Coronado. Visitors enjoy the most spectacular beaches and walking down Orange Avenue, Coronado’s main street, to explore the sites and history of Coronado as well as shopping, art galleries and museums.  Additionally, there are always events and festivals in town highlighting life here.  A must see in Coronado is the world famous Hotel Del Coronado that dates back all the way to 1888. This hotel has housed some of the most famous celebrities, athletes and politicians over the years.  When staying in Coronado, it is a treat to head over to Ferry Landing to enjoy lunch or dinner while looking out over the bay toward Seaport Village and downtown San Diego. 

Residents

Coronado is a very family oriented town with so many activities that revolve around the community.  From youth and adult soccer to basketball, karate and more, the townspeople ingrain themselves in area activities.  It is worth noting that the speed limit throughout Coronado is 25 miles per hour and is strictly enforced. With the population about 25,000 people, it is easy to see why the residents of Coronado love where they live.  In addition to the popular tourist destinations, the United States Navy operates two stations out of Coronado – Naval Air Station North Island which has three air craft carriers and over 230 aircraft housed here; and the Naval Amphibious Base Coronado, a training base for Navy SEALS.

Neighborhoods

Because Coronado is situated on the water, most homes are either waterfront or have beautiful water views. This is a very affluent community and the communities reflect that attribute.  Coronado Cays is one of the most prestigious gated communities in the country. Coronado Shores is comprised of luxury condominiums located on Coronado Beach.  If developed communities are not your style, Coronado Village is another neighborhood that features diverse architecture in single family homes, mansions and bay front condominiums including The Landings and The Point. 

Call Coronado Home

Coronado is a wonderful town when you want a slower pace or when are ready to settle down or retire.  This family oriented community located across the bay from San Diego is a favorite place for Californians and people everywhere.  You will enjoy this quaint island community with a luxury feel. Make sure you spend time here so you can see why people long to live in Coronado.