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SCV Real Estate's Record-high Averages have some Homeowners Reaching for the Stars
You saw the news last month, right?
The articles that garnered hundreds of comments and reactions?
Here's the headline that caught so many eyes: Santa Clarita home prices reach new record-high averages - $795,000.
We've had these headlining moments before. Just this January, the SCV community was buzzing about the average price of $625,000.
No one has a crystal ball, but the expectation is that prices will continue to climb in the short term. Longer term? Most professionals and economists expect a peak, then a slow decline. "Crash" is a word that gets clicks, but there's no real evidence that there's a "market crash" pending for Santa Clarita.
Which means... what?
I've been saying it a lot lately, and I'm going to say it again: Your home is probably worth more right now than it ever has been - and it very likely is worth more now than in the not-so-distant future.
But what does that matter if you also have to buy a home in order to be able to sell your home?
That's a common question, so let's go through a few of the options:
Sell (Very high!) and move "up" into a bigger/nicer home or a better/more desirable neighborhood locally. If your home is listed for $900,000 or lower, you're in the category that is seeing the biggest proportional increase in value for your property. You can make this market work extra hard for you by selling your home with a big, plushy cash infusion that then can be used as a down payment for a home in the category right above yours - $900,000+. While these homes have increased in value, too, it's not by the same huge margins. Many of my clients have "leveled up" big time into their "dream" homes across town - and kept their mortgage the same.
Sell high and buy that "dream" home out of the area - in cash (Or close to it!)! I love, love, love Santa Clarita - but for some residents, the draw of owning a little farm, or being right next to the ocean, or experiencing snow every winter, or putting down roots near the grandkids is the "reach for the stars" dream! We have clients who have relocated out of state and have bought their new places in cash because of how high their SCV home sold!
Sell high and turn that money into more money (Or invest in yourself/lifestyle!). We have clients who have invested their big profits into new businesses, new vacation homes (Ventura, Big Bear, Arizona!), new opportunities! Many of these clients had larger homes - and empty nests. As one client put it: "I'm 62, my kids are out of the house and I'd rather have an easier-to-maintain smaller home in the SCV - and one at the beach! I'll probably see my kids more there than here!" And another: "I was worried about having enough for retirement. Not anymore!"
Look, I get it. There's an element of uncertainty when it comes to real estate - and that can make a lot of people really uncomfortable. But please... don't let that discomfort delay or prevent you from reaching out with your questions. There's no risk in getting more information.
Let the Kathy Watterson Team of RE/MAX Santa Clarita with over 32 years of experience - put it to work for you! 510-0321

Light & Bright Living in the St. Clare Community in Saugus
Spread Out: This beauty boasts four bedrooms, three bathrooms and 2,194 square feet of living space.
Drink in the Sunshine: The light and bright living room and adjacent dining area shines with lots of windows and ceramic 18-by-18-inch tile flooring throughout. The open kitchen is perfect for family meals and gatherings, featuring a large center island with custom granite countertops and gleaming stainless-steel appliances. The family room has a fireplace with stone accent and direct access through sliding glass doors to your private backyard.
A Room for Everyone: Conveniently located downstairs is a bedroom, full bath, laundry room and direct access to the garage. Upstairs, you will find two spacious secondary bedrooms and a master suite with a separate retreat/office space, high ceilings, dual-sided fireplace and private bath with walk-in shower, soaking tub, dual sinks with granite counters and walk-in closet. The upstairs Jack-and-Jill bathroom features granite counters and shower/tub combo.
Upgrades Everywhere: Recessed lighting and double-pane windows are just a few of the upgrades you will find throughout the home. Step outside to your covered patio with a grassy area, a perfect place for the kids to play or enjoy al-fresco dining.
A Place to Call Home: This community offers great amenities to enjoy, including a pool/spa and playground. It's centrally located near the new Skyline Ranch Plaza, where you'll enjoy shopping, trails, restaurants and top-rated schools.
Craig Martin's "Home of the Month" can be found at 28419 Connick Place in Saugus. Craig Martin is number one in his office in sales and ranks in the top 1 percent of Realtors in Santa Clarita. He was also featured on TLC's "Flip That House" and recently on "Yahoo! Finance" as a top California Realtor. 466-4663

Stunning Private 45-foot Boat Dock Home in Channel Islands
Room to Grow by the Sea: Built in 2007, this is one of the largest floor plans in the Seabridge community, clocking in at 3,760 square feet with four bedrooms, each with their own bathroom.
Upgrades with an Ocean View: Enjoy custom built-ins, a massive granite island in the kitchen, custom imported hardwood and stone floors, luxurious master bath and so much more.
A Community You just have to "Sea": The fabulous clubhouse and fitness center are a must see, but to really understand just how special this home is, take a stroll to nearby restaurants, feel the beachy breeze on your skin and smile at your friendly new neighbors.
Best for a Boat: The private 45-foot dock is conveniently located right behind the home.
Arlene & Keith Beckwith are the Channel Islands Harbor experts. 805-338-4466

Coveted Miramonte Community Home is Rich with Dramatic Detail
Bigger is Better: This home has over 3,700 square feet of living space with four bedrooms, an office, large game room and three full bathrooms located on a perfectly-landscaped 11,984-square-foot pool-sized lot.
Downstairs Upgrades: Downstairs, there is a large formal dining and living room just off the formal entry. The spacious kitchen and eating area open luxuriously to the grand family room - and there is a full bathroom, bedroom and office with custom built-in desk and shelves downstairs, too.
Going Up: Upstairs, you'll find a master with a fireplace that looks over the professionally-landscaped, lush backyard.
Get your Game On: In addition to the other two bedrooms, you'll enjoy a generously-sized game room with custom built-ins and room enough for a pool table.
Picture Perfect: The backyard is tranquil and private with large trees, pergola and water feature. Enjoy all of this with no HOA and no Mello Roos!
Scott Thompson of Regal Realty of California is your partner for buying, selling and property management. 373-5636