The San Diego Real Estate Insider Blog

Situated in the northeastern part of San Diego County, Carlsbad is a picturesque coastal resort community.  With a population of just over 100,000 and an expansive coverage of over 40 square miles, this ideal beach community is home to a broad spectrum of real estate opportunities from first time home buyers to real estate investments to second/vacation homes to even those wanting to “move up” to a larger home or one in a more affluent area of San Diego.

Selling a Home in Carlsbad

Carlsbad’s real estate market seems to have leveled off and quite possibly even begun to climb which is good news for those considering a sale of their property.  Single-family homes are seeing the most increases with the average sale price most recently at about $650K.  As for the number of sales and pending properties, these important figures show consistent growth month to month and even stronger growth year to year.  Property stays on the market for about 80 days (two and a half months) which is great for sellers wanting to sell one home in order to buy another.  Condominium properties have an average price is just over $300K which is down ever so slightly over the past months.  But the good news is that the number of sales and pending contracts continues to show substantial growth indicating that people are buying this type of real estate.  The average number of days on the market is about 90 days which is down from previous months and the past year showing that the properties are selling faster.

Let one of our agents help you list, market and sell your Carlsbad home to the right buyer.  We know the market and we know how to help you get the most out of your home.

Buying a Home in Carlsbad

For buyers, the time to buy is NOW!  Although single family home prices are beginning to rebound, there is still time to get a great deal on a beautiful home.  Buyers may walk into a new home with equity or at least begin to quickly build it.  Condominium properties are slower to turn around so there are awesome opportunities to buy in well sought after communities in Carlsbad.  Because the average number of days on the market for single family homes and condominium properties is under 90 days, it is important to act when the right property is found as it will be snapped up by someone else.

In terms of distressed property, foreclosures and short sales are more prevalent with condominiums than single family homes.  As with all sales of this kind, patience and being at the right place at the right time are the keys to finding a fantastic real estate prospect.

Our agents have all of the latest information, not to mention tons of experience, on Carlsbad real estate to help buyers find a home that meets and exceeds your needs and desires.  We also can keep buyers informed on newly updated lists of distressed properties.

Relocation Efforts in Carlsbad

While the process of packing one home and moving to another is daunting, other efforts such as finding temporary housing, if needed, getting the necessary information about schools, setting up utilities and all of the other details of relocating are overwhelming as well.  Our relocation staff is here to help make the process a little easier. 

Take the Next Step

This is a good time for buyers and sellers to look at the real estate market in Carlsbad.  For sellers, list prices and sale prices continue to grow.  For buyers, the market is rebounding but has a way to go so there are ample opportunities to get “more home.”  For both sides, timing is of the essence so a plan of action is definitely necessary!

Welcome to one of the most upscale, yet laid back cities in Southern California….Carlsbad.  Situated in the North County Coastal section of the San Diego metro, Carlsbad is lovely coastal community 35 short miles north of downtown San Diego and only about 90 miles south of Los Angeles.  This tourism driven town has a population of just over 100,000 people who work and play in the area. 

Although Carlsbad is also home to some of the best golf courses at posh resorts like Aviara Resort and La Costa Resort that cater to vacationers, it has a very close-knit community of full time residents that love where they live and enjoy all that Carlsbad has to offer in terms of community events, art galleries, and outdoor activities and festivals. 

Where to Live in Carlsbad

Carlsbad is divided into four sections called “quadrants” – Southeast, Southwest, Northeast and Northwest. Within these areas is a tremendous variety of neighborhoods that feature homes of different styles and price points.  One of the best qualities of Carlsbad is that the prices points of real estate run the gamut making it affordable for many people to buy here whether buyers are first-time buyers or buying a second or vacation home. 

Many of the communities are very well laid out planned communities that incorporate community centers, lots of green space, trails and smaller neighborhoods like in La Costa, Aviara and Calavera Hills.  Within these neighborhoods, there is a mix of single family homes, condominiums and townhomes.  Activities are abundant as well with kids’ sports and events and summertime concerts. 

Several smaller gated communities are spread out through the area like Harbor Pointe, Waters End and Mar Brisas.  Other gated communities are situated within the larger areas of La Costa and Aviara such as La Costa Ridge, Aviara Point and Bella Lago.  Homes within these communities are priced anywhere from the upper-$300s to low-$400s to over $1 million. 

In terms of condominium and townhome communities, there are tons from which to choose.  Because this is a resort area as well, many residents have second and vacation homes in Carlsbad some of which are in these communities.  There are condominiums that start as low as the mid-$100s and climb into the millions depending on the location and the views. 

On the lower end, units in the Grove start in the mid-$100s and are excellent choices for first time buyers.  The resort community of La Costa also features smaller condominiums starting in the mid to upper-$100s which is ideal for retirees wanting to live in Carlsbad as well as those wanting a resort lifestyle near some of the best golf in the area.

In Olde Carlsbad and the Village, buyers can expect to pay anywhere from the mid-$300s to the mid-$900s for homes in condominium and townhome complexes.  Some are even priced over $3 million, again, depending on the view and the location. 

The Important Stuff -- Statistics of the Market

The real estate market in Carlsbad is finally beginning to see a slight turn especially with single family homes.  The most recent average price of a home is about $650K which is up from previous months.  As for the monthly number of sales, they continue to make substantial climbs as do the number of pending sales.  Homes generally stay on the market for about 80 days (just over two months).

The average price for a condominium property is just over $300K which is down a tiny bit over previous months and from last year.  In terms of the number of monthly sales, while they are down from the past months, they are up substantially from last year as are the number of pending properties.  The average number of days on the market for condominiums is just under 90 days which is down substantially from previous months and year to year.

In a Nutshell

If you want a Southern California lifestyle near the coast line, Carlsbad is an excellent spot to consider.  It encompasses, charm and elegance with a warm, friendly and laid back lifestyle in a way that is hard to beat.  There is real estate at pretty much every price point which provides so many opportunities from first time buyers to real estate investors.  Carlsbad has everything and more.

In the North County Coast region of San Diego County lies the affluent coastal community of Carlsbad.  This lovely resort town, situated about 85 miles south of Los Angeles and 35 miles north of downtown San Diego, is known for its unique shopping, tourism and comfortable lifestyle.

Established in the late 1800s, it is said that Carlsbad came about when a sailor, John Frazier, dug a well to offer water at the local train stop.  After its popularity grew, another fresh-water well was dug as it was said to have “spa-worthy” water.  The town of Carlsbad was formed at this spot and named for the spa town, Karlsbad, in what is now the Czech Republic.

Although there is much development in Carlsbad, the residents and city government are devoted to protecting the integrity of the community.  A specified amount of land within the city is protected from development of any kind.  The city also spends a significant amount of money restoring habitats that have been destroyed by development.  In fact, Carlsbad was one of the first municipalities in the state to have ordinances protecting wildlife habitat.

What Makes Carlsbad Such a Great Place to Live?

Not only does the community care about the environment of Carlsbad, it is a very active town and plays host to so many activities and events. Annual events like the Carlsbad Beach Fest, the Carlsbad Music Festival and more draw out most residents and even more visitors.  Other exciting events like the Carlsbad Triathlon bring many athletes to the area.

Arts and culture plays a big role in Carlsbad with art galleries, museums and other activities.  Some of the most popular include the Carlsbad Sculpture Garden features exhibitions from different sculptors; the New Village Arts Theatre has become one of the most popular and revered theatre companies in the entire metro area; and, TGIF Jazz in the Park which plays host to some of the best jazz concert on Fridays throughout June, July and August.

As for major attractions around the area, the most popular is probably LEGOLAND of California, an entire amusement park created from giant Lego pieces.  Families from all over California and much of the western part of the country come to Carlsbad to visit this huge park. 

Outdoor activities are plentiful in Carlsbad.  From any of the lagoons to the perfect beaches, residents love to fish, surf, and swim.   There is a huge trail system that winds through the area neighborhoods as well for hikers and bikers to enjoy.  Finally, many of the golf courses here are some of the best in the country.

Why Do People Love Living in Carlsbad?

Although there is a diverse population in Carlsbad, many of the residents have retired here for the resort lifestyle or have moved here because they work in the area and want their kids in the schools here which are some of the best in the state.  There are several major and well-known companies that are headquartered in Carlsbad like Callaway Golf, Cobra Golf, Jenny Craig and No Fear Apparel.   

The population of Carlsbad is significant with over 105,000 people living here.   The area continues to grow in popularity which is reflected by the 35 percent growth in population since 2000.  The median age is about 40 years old and the median income is well over $100K. 

Finally, the best part of living in Carlsbad is the climate.  This subtropical paradise is perfect year round with lows in the mid-40s during the winter months and mid-60s during the summer months.  As for highs, they range between the mid-60s in the winter and mid-70s in the summer.  Weather cannot get much better than that!

Neighborhoods in Carlsbad

Carlsbad is pretty much divided into four sections.  Each has its own character as well as a nice mix of single-family homes, condominiums and townhomes.    For the most part, the northwest section includes the downtown area, the Village, and Olde Carlsbad.  It is considered to be the oldest part of Carlsbad and is home to quaint cottages and bungalows as well as stately coastal mansions.  The northeast section is comprised mostly of single family homes and townhome communities with limited shopping.  As for the southeast section, this is the most newly developed area of Carlsbad with the largest number of homes.  It is also home to the La Costa Resort and Spa.  Lastly, the southwest section is situated along the coast and features the 90211 zip code, one of Forbes Magazine’s Most Expensive Zip Codes.  Aviara is one of the most exclusive neighborhoods in Carlsbad and is home to the Park Hyatt Resort and the Aviara Golf and Country Club.

Carlsbad Has It All

For those who want the best golf or those who have a strong pull to the ocean, Carlsbad has something for everyone.  With so many companies located in and around Carlsbad, families have settled here because of the schools as well.   This community is definitely the best of the best!

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.

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!

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.

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.

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.

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 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.