Today, we're diving into a hot topic: Is it possible for a "normal person" to afford a house in Santa Cruz County? Contrary to popular belief, you don't have to be ultra-wealthy. While it can be challenging, there are various affordable options, including condos, townhomes, and manufactured housing. Vanessa recently closed deals for two clients under $600,000, proving it's doable. In Santa Cruz proper and surrounding neighborhoods, properties can be found in different price ranges, with some near the beach in the 600k range. Manufactured housing offers quality homes under $500,000, and condos in the 600-700k range provide low-maintenance living close to amenities. Single-family homes under a million are available in areas like San Lorenzo Valley and South County. Fixer-uppers are another affordable option for those willing to invest in renovations. Financing options like renovation loans can help, but be aware of their challenges. Tiny homes on cheap land are also an option, but regulations and hidden costs complicate the process. Join us to explore these topics and learn how you can navigate the Santa Cruz County real estate market. You don't need to be ultra-wealthy to own a home in 2024.

This week Erick, Vanessa and Jason talk about 3 big questions our clients like to ask... how much do you actually need for a down payment? How can you avoid the headaches of probate and inherited properties? And is staging a home really actually all that necessary?