Real Estate Tasting Room

Today’s Santa Ynez Valley Realtor’s Caravan:The Good, The Bad and the Ugly

Published by: Doris Banchik
Published on June 26th, 2012
Categorized under: Buyer Advisory, Properties

Want the Dirt on Some Santa Ynez Valley New Listings? Read On.

Today’s Santa Ynez Valley MLS Realtor Caravan included seven properties, of which four had never been on Broker open (caravan) before. Here are my thoughts on the four:

560 Ranch Road, Solvang $8,900,000. This is a very rare property, including 65 acres in an area of higher density on the outskirts of Solvang. The property is actually composed of two similar sized parcels, however, according to the listing agent, the house straddles the line. Since each parcel can only have one main residence, the option to build another main residence will require some fancy foot work. The views from this home are spectacular, and despite the higher density of the surrounding neighborhood, one feels the solitude and beauty that is the Santa Ynez Valley. As for the house, well I expected something else in a $9 million dollar listing. The flooring was terrific, as were a couple of library style rooms, however, the mirrored glass sliding closet doors and dated bathrooms made me think, $9 million dollars? Really?  The property was well outfitted for horses, including a triplex for the help. The agent was good enough to ask for price opinions…wonder what she got?

1431 N.Refugio, Santa Ynez $1,695,000. This 5 acre horse property was listed at $1,995,000 just three weeks ago, and underwent a$300,000 price reduction just a couple of weeks later. The 2005 home is spacious, clean and appears to be in fine condition, offering a terrific kitchen and lots of decking. Much of the land is behind the house, and is fenced into at least two if not more pastures. This property is not on busy Refugio Rd; it is a quiet parcel set behind another. Not a colorful personality, but solid and functional choice.

2650 Easton, Los Olivos $1,379,000. This is the third time I have posted on this great property. You can check out my NEW LISTING ALERT on 2650 Easton from last Friday. This, however, is important…. the property is still available.

Imagine passing through stone pillars and winding your way to the top on a Peppertree lined road with lush vineyards on both sides. And then there is a custom lodge style home with lots of exposed wood and stone. The design is multi-story, with some very funky cool elements. There is a neat guest house currently being used as a music studio. This property is in the trendy wine-centric town of Los Olivos, within walking distance to restaurants and shops, yet out of the hub bub of the weekend wine tasters. This would be a great second home as well as primary residence. By the way, the grapes are being purchased by one of the youngest local Rhone Rangers, Andrew Murray.

2860 Long Canyon, Santa Ynez $895,000. This is one mixed bag of a 9.7 acre property. It is located in beautiful Oak Trail Estates, where it is not unusual to find very high end properties. This one is quite steep, with a fairly expensive switch back road leading to the home site and barn area. The views from the top are fabulous!. And then there is the house. There seems to be stairs into and out of every space, with unfinished areas and the rest dated. I have no idea how this could be brought current, then again, I am not a designer. For the uninspired, this is a dozer. The barn appears to be in reasonable shape and there is some sort of living quarter, but we did not get in today. Assuming you can build your dream house for a million, this property could be for you. The things that matter are here: location, privacy and views. This could be a great transitional property for people in pre-retirement. Buy this, use it on weekends, and invest more when you are ready to settle down in the beautiful Santa Ynez Valley.

A Santa Ynez Grand Dame Available for Sale or Rent

2060 Dermanak Dr, Solvang $2,800,000. This very spacious home is situated on 6.9 acres in posh Regency Hills. The home is perfect to showcase your art and/or your designer furnishings. There is also a lifestyle of the rich and famous pool and spa, with great views. If this property does not sell, it will be available for lease. This could be a great opportunity to kick the tires on the amazing Santa Ynez Valley lifestyle. To be sure, you will be hooked.

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So that’s it folks…more tomorrow

Cheers!