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Buyers Why Westside Santa Cruz Continues to Top Buyer Wishlists in 2026   Why Westside Santa Cruz Continues to Top Buyer Wishlists in 2026 Few neighborhoods capture the essence of the California coast quite like Westside Santa Cruz. In 2026, this vibrant enclave remains one of the most sought-after destinations for homebuyers — blending ocean views, community spirit, and a walkable lifestyle that’s as relaxed as it […]
Buyers Maximizing Your Northern California Home Sale When You’re Not On the Same Page Selling a home with someone you disagree with is stressful, but it is possible to protect your equity, your sanity, and your relationships with the right structure and communication. As a Santa Cruz–based Realtor serving Northern California, Brian Wellikson helps spouses, ex-spouses, and family co-owners move from conflict to a clear, shared plan. Why co-owners […]
Buyers How life changes impact your home search Buying a home after a major life change can feel overwhelming, but it can also be a chance to reset and build a stronger financial and lifestyle foundation. As a Santa Cruz–based Realtor working across the Bay Area, Brian Wellikson helps buyers navigate these transitions with clarity and confidence. How life changes impact your home […]
Buyers Best Coastal Communities Near Santa Cruz for Beach Lovers If you’re dreaming of waking up to the sound of waves and spending your days soaking up the sun by the ocean, Santa Cruz and its neighboring beach communities offer some of the most stunning coastal living in California. As a local realtor passionate about this vibrant area, Brian Wellikson is here to highlight the […]
Buyers First-Time Home Buyer Programs in Santa Cruz County First-Time Home Buyer Programs in Santa Cruz County If you’re a first-time homebuyer in Santa Cruz County, there are several programs designed to help you with down payment assistance, affordable mortgage options, and price-restricted homes. Here are some of the key programs available locally: CalHome Mortgage Assistance Program (County of Santa Cruz) Provides down payment […]
Buyers “How do first-time home buyers qualify for a loan?” How Do First-Time Home Buyers Qualify for a Loan in Santa Cruz, CA? A Guide by Brian Wellikson, Santa Cruz Realtor Buying your first home in Santa Cruz, California, is a significant achievement, and understanding how to qualify for a mortgage loan is key to making your dream a reality. First-time homebuyers often face unique […]
Buyers Closing Costs in Santa Cruz, California for $1 Million Home In Santa Cruz County, the overall property tax rate is approximately 1.25% of the assessed value of the home, including the base 1% rate set by California’s Proposition 13 plus local voter-approved levies for schools, infrastructure, and other services.​ For a $1,000,000 home, this means the annual property tax would be roughly $12,500 to $12,600. […]
Buyers Measure O: Your Guide to Affordable Housing in the City of Santa Cruz For first-time homebuyers navigating Santa Cruz’s competitive housing market, understanding available affordable housing opportunities is essential. One important program that supports local affordable housing is Measure O, a voter-approved initiative designed to ensure new residential developments include affordable units for moderate-, low-, and very-low-income households within the City of Santa Cruz. This program expands options […]
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Buyers How to Qualify for Measure J in Santa Cruz Buying your first home in Santa Cruz County can feel exciting yet challenging, especially when navigating affordable housing options like Measure J. This voter-approved affordable housing program has helped many local families achieve homeownership in a highly competitive market. If you’re a first-time buyer wondering how Measure J might work for you, here’s a detailed […]
Buyers “How Much Down Payment Do You Really Need in the Bay Area?” Buying a home in the Bay Area, including Santa Cruz County, comes with unique financial considerations — one of the biggest being how much you need for a down payment. The expectation of a hefty down payment can feel like a barrier, but the reality is more flexible than many think. Here’s what you need […]
Buyers Types of Single Family Houses in Santa Cruz For those starting their home search in Santa Cruz, the process can feel overwhelming, especially given the city’s competitive real estate market and rising prices. As a local expert, Brian Wellikson with Coldwell Banker Realty aims to help you navigate the diverse housing options and understand what each neighborhood offers. Exploring Santa Cruz’s Single-Family Homes […]
Buyers Why Client First Agent Matters In today’s real estate market, finding a Realtor in Santa Cruz County who truly puts you first can make all the difference in your buying or selling experience. A client-first approach isn’t just a nice-to-have—it’s a hallmark of top agents in Santa Cruz County who prioritize your needs, protect your interests, and guide you with […]
Buyers Step-by-Step Guide to Buying Your First Home in Santa Cruz County Buying your first home in Santa Cruz County is an exciting adventure with many rewarding moments, but it can also feel overwhelming without a clear plan. This step-by-step guide will walk you through the essential stages of the home buying process—helping you navigate smoothly and confidently toward owning your dream home by the coast. Step […]
Buyers First-Time Home Buyer Mistakes to Avoid (and What to Do Instead) Buying your first home is an exciting milestone, but it’s also a journey filled with important decisions and potential pitfalls. Many first-time homebuyers unknowingly make common mistakes that can lead to stress, unexpected costs, or missed opportunities. To help you navigate the process with confidence, here’s a guide to the most frequent first-time home buyer […]

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