Marsha Kotlyar Estate Group  |  License #01426886  |  (805) 565-4014

Blog

  • Santa Barbara’s New Food Scene

    Santa Barbara’s New Food Scene

    February 24th, 2023

    Mouth-watering and inventive dishes abound at Santa Barbara’s hottest up-and-coming restaurants. Let’s dive in…  Read More »

  • On Trend: 2023 Interior Design Ideas

    On Trend: 2023 Interior Design Ideas

    February 15th, 2023

    If you’re considering a home audit or a simple refresh, be sure to consider our top interior design ideas for 2023.  Read More »

  • Santa Barbara Market Update | 2022 Year in Review

    Santa Barbara Market Update | 2022 Year in Review

    January 10th, 2023

    Happy New Year! On a national level, the 2022 real estate market was characterized as the great shift, a departure from the banner year the real estate market experienced in 2021.  Read More »

  • A Look Inside Our Team Model

    A Look Inside Our Team Model

    January 3rd, 2023

    Marsha and her team combine the power of Berkshire Hathaway’s visibility, respect, and prowess with their extensive connections and influence in the area to deliver the most exemplary real estate advice.  Read More »

  • Santa Barbara's Holiday Happenings!

    Santa Barbara's Holiday Happenings!

    December 9th, 2022

    Enjoy festive findings all season long at markets, parades, light shows, and more.  Read More »

  • Small Business Saturday

    Small Business Saturday

    November 16th, 2022

    Montecito has been a longtime advocate for small business, and this year’s Shop Small initiative falls on Saturday, November 26th. The upcoming holiday season is the perfect time to encourage and support the special small businesses in our community while getting ahead on holiday gift shopping.  Read More »

  • Watch Santa Barbara Students Shine

    Watch Santa Barbara Students Shine

    November 4th, 2022

    Santa Barbara is a great place to raise a family – that much is clear. It seems like things are translating pretty seamlessly to the classrooms, too.  Read More »

  • Architect Spotlight: George Washington Smith

    Architect Spotlight: George Washington Smith

    October 31st, 2022

    Known for popularizing the Spanish Colonial Revival style, you can’t visit the American Riviera without being swept up by the work of George Washington Smith.  Read More »

  • Spooky Season in Santa Barbara

    Spooky Season in Santa Barbara

    October 19th, 2022

    Whether you’re excited to take a trip to a pumpkin patch, visit a corn maze, or enjoy music, costumes, and candy – spooky season is finally here. Fall in Montecito and Santa Barbara means an abundance of harvest-themed celebrations and plenty of family-friendly events.  Read More »

  • SANTA BARBARA MARKET UPDATE | Q3 2022

    SANTA BARBARA MARKET UPDATE | Q3 2022

    October 11th, 2022

    The Summer statistics are in and we have digested the 3rd quarter figures for you in a concise summary of the local real estate market and our predictions on what we can expect for the remainder of the year.  Read More »

  • Jeff Shelton’s Irresistibly Californian Architecture

    Jeff Shelton’s Irresistibly Californian Architecture

    September 7th, 2022

    Through every whimsical archway to each loopy staircase railing, Architect Jeff Shelton’s creativity and playfulness is imbued in his audacious re-contextualization of the Spanish streets of Santa Barbara.  Read More »

  • Labor Day Beach Guide

    Labor Day Beach Guide

    August 30th, 2022

    Marsha Kotlyar Estate Group's local guide to the best beaches in our area, from Carpinteria and Montecito to Santa Barbara and beyond. With Labor Day weekend on the horizon, we can't think of any other place we'd rather be than one of our world-renowned beaches.  Read More »

  • The Sky Isn’t Falling

    The Sky Isn’t Falling

    August 25th, 2022

    As the job market continues to hold historic strength, rumors of a looming recession remain. Uncertainty over the course of the Federal Reserve’s interest spikes has many experts speculating just how difficult this economic downturn will end up being. We are having this conversation daily and this has most buyers and sellers wondering, what would a recession mean for the housing market?  Read More »

  • Neighborhood Spotlight: Montecito’s Historic Arcady Estates

    Neighborhood Spotlight: Montecito’s Historic Arcady Estates

    July 26th, 2022

    In 1930, notable realtor Harold C. Chase outlined a roster of over 200 “major” estates. Among them were Riven Rock, Ganna Walska’s Lotusland, and Bellosguardo – as well as our favorite, the legendary Arcady estate.  Read More »

  • Santa Barbara Market Update | Q2 2022

    Santa Barbara Market Update | Q2 2022

    July 12th, 2022

    Nationally, in an effort to lower inflation by cooling the economy, the Federal Reserve rolled out several predicted interest rate hikes during the 2nd quarter of 2022. In light of the higher mortgage rates and other economic factors, the higher borrowing costs tempered demand for homes, and the market began to calibrate in some parts of the country. Locally, the ultra-hot real estate market continued throughout Q2 as we compare the spring quarter statistics (April through June) to that of the previous year.  Read More »

  • New Summer Spots

    New Summer Spots

    July 1st, 2022

    Our community only continues to boom with a steady stream of new restaurants, bars, and coffee shops to try. Marsha Kotlyar Estate Group shines the spotlight on a few of the newest, most exciting spots to check out as the weather gets warmer.  Read More »

  • How Homeownership Impacts You

    How Homeownership Impacts You

    June 20th, 2022

    Home is so much more than a physical structure - it can be a sanctuary, a place to unwind, a space to be your authentic self. However you choose to define ‘home’, we are honored to be part of your journey.  Read More »

  • Adventure is Out There! Montecito Union School's

    Adventure is Out There! Montecito Union School's "Nature Lab"

    June 6th, 2022

    Adventure is out there! Wonder, discovery, and learning all come to life outside of the classroom in Montecito Union School’s highly-anticipated Nature Lab.  Read More »

  • Santa Barbara Magazine Feature -

    Santa Barbara Magazine Feature - "Market Leader"

    May 6th, 2022

    Delivering a uniquely elevated experience to clients with nearly 20 years in luxury Santa Barbara real estate—and a keen understanding of the meaning of home.  Read More »

  • Santa Barbara’s Historic Crocker Row Estates

    Santa Barbara’s Historic Crocker Row Estates

    April 29th, 2022

    Santa Barbara became an incorporated city in 1850, leaving a trail of Spanish history and Mission Revival architecture. Like any neighborhood of a long-gone era, historic homes carry forward their story as a window to the past.  Read More »

  • A Close Look at the Spring Housing Market

    A Close Look at the Spring Housing Market

    April 13th, 2022

    What can someone who is looking to buy or sell a home expect this Spring? Here’s what our team and other experts are saying...  Read More »

  • Santa Barbara Market Update | Q1 2022

    Santa Barbara Market Update | Q1 2022

    April 13th, 2022

    The 1st Quarter 2022 local real estate statistics are in, and the conditions seen during 2021 continue. Along South SB County, inventory dipped a full 20% over last year, as did the number of sales, slipping 9%.  Read More »

  • Why Now is the Time to List Your Home

    Why Now is the Time to List Your Home

    March 23rd, 2022

    have a slightly different strategy for each listing that keeps the seller in control. Our customized marketing and sales plan ensures that your property sells within a short amount of time, for the highest amount possible.  Read More »

  • Getting Involved with Our Community

    Getting Involved with Our Community

    March 3rd, 2022

    We all know that it's the people who make the home. If you’re new to the area and looking for ways to connect with your neighborhood, Marsha Kotylar Estate Group recommends getting involved with your community through local philanthropy.  Read More »

  • What’s New in Montecito & Santa Barbara

    What’s New in Montecito & Santa Barbara

    February 21st, 2022

    From chef-driven dining options within newly launched hotels to a 2,800-foot multi-use walking path project - there’s plenty to explore across Santa Barbara County’s local developments. Here’s the latest on what’s new in your neighborhood...  Read More »

  • Marsha’s Answers | What Will the Market Do This Year?

    Marsha’s Answers | What Will the Market Do This Year?

    February 1st, 2022

    The question I get asked most often about real estate is “How’s the market?” Our team has our finger on the pulse, and the community looks to us for insight because they’re curious, or weighing it in their decision to buy or sell.  Read More »

  • Santa Barbara Market Update | 2021 Year in Review

    Santa Barbara Market Update | 2021 Year in Review

    January 18th, 2022

    Happy New Year! The 2021 real estate market, on a national level, had an exceptionally strong year. While home buying fell off a cliff at the onset of the pandemic in 2020, one year later, home sales in 2021 in the US reached the highest level in 15 years, with an estimated 6 million homes sold.  Read More »

  • Best Places to Have a Picnic in Santa Barbara & Montecito

    Best Places to Have a Picnic in Santa Barbara & Montecito

    January 13th, 2022

    Every day, we’re reminded we live in paradise. Our team got together and compiled a list of our favorite local family-friendly picnic spots for your endless summer.  Read More »

  • Top 5 Most Memorable Homes of 2021

    Top 5 Most Memorable Homes of 2021

    December 16th, 2021

    Whether it’s a living room with an ocean view, seamless design, or thoughtful rooms that lend historical charm - we have had the privilege of representing Santa Barbara and Montecito’s finest luxury estates.  Read More »

  • Celebrating the Holidays Like a Local

    Celebrating the Holidays Like a Local

    November 19th, 2021

    With beautiful weather and endless entertainment options, the holidays in Santa Barbara and Montecito are like no other. In an endless list of things to do, our team has gathered a list of our favorite November and December activities to keep you joyfully warm throughout this cheerful season.  Read More »

  • Marsha Kotlyar Estate Group - A Legacy of Success in Santa Barbara

    Marsha Kotlyar Estate Group - A Legacy of Success in Santa Barbara

    October 20th, 2021

    Since 2003, Marsha Kotlyar Estate Group has specialized in premier Santa Barbara and Montecito properties. As a luxury division of Berkshire Hathaway Homeservices, our results have consistently ranked our team in the Top 10, both locally and nationally.  Read More »

  • In Conversation with Leonard Unander Associates

    In Conversation with Leonard Unander Associates

    October 19th, 2021

    Family-owned and operated since 1977, Leonard Unander Associates has remained unrivaled. Backed by over 40 years of custom homes stretching across Santa Barbara, Montecito, Hope Ranch, and Santa Ynez, they transform each client’s vision into reality - exceeding expectations with confidence and ease.  Read More »

  • Santa Barbara Market Update Q3 2021 | Infamous Inventory Shortage

    Santa Barbara Market Update Q3 2021 | Infamous Inventory Shortage

    October 12th, 2021

    The 3rd quarter 2021 statistics are in. Our local real estate market experienced the lowest inventory in history, with continued over-asking price sales and more off market deals than ever before, all contributing to rising prices in every segment of our market. In a nutshell, supply is not keeping up with the continued demand and we are seeing fewer sales.  Read More »

  • San Ysidro: The Allure of the Upper Village Corridor

    San Ysidro: The Allure of the Upper Village Corridor

    October 5th, 2021

    In a flawless blend of natural beauty, San Ysidro Road and San Ysidro Lane are adorned with secluded estates that views stretch from the mountains to the sea.  Read More »

  • MK Favorites: Our Team's Favorite Local Spots

    MK Favorites: Our Team's Favorite Local Spots

    September 7th, 2021

    Our community not only boasts an award-winning food and wine culture, but an endless bucket-list worthy number of things to do. Wondering where to start? We’ve got you covered. Here's a list of our top local recommendations...  Read More »

  • Neighborhood Spotlight: Pepper Hill

    Neighborhood Spotlight: Pepper Hill

    August 2nd, 2021

    Pepper Hill is a unique enclave of large Montecito properties with dramatic ocean and mountain views, just minutes from the Upper and Lower Villages.  Read More »

  • Santa Barbara Market Update Q2 2021  |  Historic Highs

    Santa Barbara Market Update Q2 2021 | Historic Highs

    July 21st, 2021

    The wild market continued through the 2nd quarter 2021, and as we compare the spring quarter statistics (April through June) to that of the previous year, the Santa Barbara County real estate market nearly mirrored that of the 1st quarter statistics.  Read More »

  • Architectural Spotlight: Jeff Shelton

    Architectural Spotlight: Jeff Shelton

    July 16th, 2021

    In the city that's become his canvas, Jeff Shelton is known for his magical Dr. Suess-like buildings that have captivated tourists and locals alike.  Read More »

  • Neighborhood Spotlight: Summerland

    Neighborhood Spotlight: Summerland

    July 2nd, 2021

    Discover a coastal wonderland that speaks for itself. Escape city life and experience your own endless summer.  Read More »

  • Enchanting Mystery and Endless Character

    Enchanting Mystery and Endless Character

    June 17th, 2021

    The best things in life only get better with time. Thoughtful, personal touches champion the idea of individuality within the home.  Read More »

  • Neighborhood Spotlight: Ennisbrook

    Neighborhood Spotlight: Ennisbrook

    May 19th, 2021

    Ennisbrook is a prestigious community of immaculate high-end homes with unmatched privacy, security, and serenity. Open spaces and an undeniable connection with nature make Ennisbrook’s sprawling 200-acre paradise unique to Montecito.  Read More »

  • Q1 2021 - A Market Like We've Never Seen Before

    Q1 2021 - A Market Like We've Never Seen Before

    April 16th, 2021

    The 1st Quarter 2021 has come to an end, and comparing the numbers to last year, it’s obvious that Montecito has never seen a market like this. Montecito smashed all past Q1 records with 95 sales, a 98% increase over last year.  Read More »

  • Casa Blanca: Sold Over Night, Over Asking

    Casa Blanca: Sold Over Night, Over Asking

    April 8th, 2021

    Casa Blanca is in a class of its own. This classic California Spanish Colonial masterpiece approaches Montecito luxury with confidence and ease, a rare pairing that ended a lucky buyer’s search for “the one” earlier this month. Just one day after its debut, 788 San Ysidro sold for $12.6M, $1.7M over asking.  Read More »

  • A Guide to the Channel Islands

    A Guide to the Channel Islands

    February 23rd, 2021

    Here’s a guide to Channel Islands National Park, one of our favorite weekend getaway destinations.  Read More »

  • The Perfect Time to Buy

    The Perfect Time to Buy

    February 10th, 2021

    While mortgage rates are low, the value of homes continue to increase. You’ll thank yourself later down the road for the great investment you made, not to mention the beautiful home you get to live in.  Read More »

  • Luxury Market

    Luxury Market

    January 27th, 2021

    Just over a year ago, luxury buyers were looking for smaller spaces in urban settings, but a turn of events in 2020 ignited a shift in the market. “With quarantine concerns still top of mind for many luxury buyers, we see large, sprawling estates making their comeback” (Institute for Luxury Home Marketing).  Read More »

  • Santa Barbara Real Estate Market Update – 2020 Year in Review

    Santa Barbara Real Estate Market Update – 2020 Year in Review

    January 1st, 2021

    Happy New Year! Here’s what we learned from 2020. A worldwide pandemic, a tumultuous election, and an economic recession did not mean we had to have a housing crisis. In fact, on a national level, the real estate market had one of the best years it’s had in decades.  Read More »

  • A Look Back on 2020

    A Look Back on 2020

    December 30th, 2020

    2020 was a year of many surprises. In the midst of a lot happening in the world, the Santa Barbara housing market reached an all-time high, and our sales totaled an excess of 100 million dollars, year to date.  Read More »

  • Supporting Small, Local Businesses During the Holiday Season

    Supporting Small, Local Businesses During the Holiday Season

    December 15th, 2020

    2020 has been quite the year...but that won’t keep us from spreading the holiday cheer! As we face a second stay-at-home order, supporting small, local businesses is a great way to check off your wish list while keeping funds within our community. Here in Santa Barbara, we are so fortunate to have such a wide variety of artisans and small businesses at our fingertips. Here are a few ways you can support some of your favorite local vendors during this unique holiday season.  Read More »

  • Montecito In The National News

    Montecito In The National News

    December 11th, 2020

    We wanted to share a worthy article published this week in the Wall Street Journal about the state of the local market and influx of buyers to Montecito.  Thank you to Amanda Eberstein and Wall Street Journal for featuring me and for summarizing one of the more accurate depictions of the monumental year our local market has experienced.   Read More »

  • Neighborhood Spotlight

    Neighborhood Spotlight

    November 24th, 2020

    Birnam Wood. Montecito’s beautiful golf course community, renowned for its luxury estates and private, gated premises.  Read More »

  • Meaning of home

    Meaning of home

    November 10th, 2020

    In the past several months, “home” has taken on more meanings than one.  Read More »

  • Gardener's Cottage

    Gardener's Cottage

    October 27th, 2020

    Once home to the original gardener of the Arcady Estates, this upgraded residence is now on the market for the first time ever.  Read More »

  • Q3 2020 Real Estate Market Update - An All Time High

    Q3 2020 Real Estate Market Update - An All Time High

    October 8th, 2020

    Despite all the moving parts in the economy, the upcoming election, and the worldwide pandemic, housing demand for Santa Barbara County is at an all-time high, with no apparent slowdown in sight.  Read More »

  • Architect Spotlight: Alex D’Alfonso

    Architect Spotlight: Alex D’Alfonso

    July 31st, 2020

    Take a walk around downtown, climb the courthouse tower, hike to Inspiration Point––wherever you go in Santa Barbara, you’re bound to see those quintessential white stucco walls and Terracotta rooftops dotting the horizon. We can thank famed architect Alex D’Alfonso for playing an influential role in this movement called the Spanish Colonial Revival Style dating back to the 1920s.  Read More »

  • Q2 2020 Real Estate Market Update - A Market Unlike We Have Ever Seen!

    Q2 2020 Real Estate Market Update - A Market Unlike We Have Ever Seen!

    July 6th, 2020

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  • Montecito Journal

    Montecito Journal

    June 30th, 2020

    Gwyn Lurie, who recently acquired the Montecito Journal, is on the helm of the paper’s production and has executed many wonderful things for the newspaper and Montecito’s community. Lurie has taken on the challenge to keep local journalism alive and has dedicated the last few months of her ownership into highlighting and reflecting on our communities many accomplishments and events.  Read More »

  • Classic Gardens of Montecito

    Classic Gardens of Montecito

    June 12th, 2020

    Lotusland, located in the heart of Montecito, is a stunning 37-acre estate featuring unique and diverse horticulture throughout. The botanical gardens, originally owned by fabulous Madame Ganna Walska, provide a worldly experience with an array of notable plants and landscapes.  Read More »

  • Q1 Real Estate Market Update - Not the Housing Crisis You May Think

    Q1 Real Estate Market Update - Not the Housing Crisis You May Think

    April 17th, 2020

    While Real Estate has been deemed an essential business in Santa Barbara County, California's shelter-in-place order changed the way we live and do business. As a result, recent activity has stalled and the statistics were affected, but not as drastically as we would think.  Read More »

  • We’re in this Together – Market Insights

    We’re in this Together – Market Insights

    March 24th, 2020

    We’re in this Together – Market Insights  Read More »

  • Local Market Update 2019: A Year in Review

    Local Market Update 2019: A Year in Review

    February 3rd, 2020

    What a year for local real estate! Prices went up, Buyer confidence is up, and Montecito is back! I have been tracking local real estate prices for nearly 20 years. During this cycle, home values have consistently increased since bottoming out in 2012, and this past year, average and median prices reached roughly the same levels we saw in 2007.  Read More »

  • Advantages of Buying Real Estate in the Winter

    Advantages of Buying Real Estate in the Winter

    November 5th, 2019

    With the cold weather of winter, buyers are less likely to be out shopping for real estate and sellers are less likely to have their homes on the market. Surprisingly this can be a huge benefit for buyers looking to buy in the slow months. We’ve compiled a list of the benefits of buying in the winter, as opposed to the competitive spring and summer seasons.  Read More »

  • What's Happening in the Market? Q3 2019

    What's Happening in the Market? Q3 2019

    October 29th, 2019

    What’s happening in our local real estate market? Comparing the 3rd quarter 2019 statistics (July through September) to the previous year, South Santa Barbara County (Goleta through Carpinteria) statistics showed improvements in most segments.  Read More »

  • Architect Spotlight: Becker Studios

    Architect Spotlight: Becker Studios

    August 9th, 2019

    As one of Santa Barbara’s most sought-after designers, Becker Studios has conceived and completed a number of exquisitely designed homes. They are highly known for their impeccable taste and suburb attention to detail with every project they oversee.  Read More »

  • What's Happening In The Market? Q2 2019

    What's Happening In The Market? Q2 2019

    July 22nd, 2019

    What’s happening in our real estate market? According to the Santa Barbara MLS, the first half of 2019 South Santa Barbara County statistics (Goleta through Carpinteria) remained relatively the same as last year (with slight price increases).  Read More »

  • Pools of Santa Barbara!

    Pools of Santa Barbara!

    July 3rd, 2019

    Nothing screams summer like a sparkling pool to dive into. Whether you’re into swimming laps, just lounging by a pool, or throwing a pool party, we’ve compiled the listings with the best pool areas. These fantastic pools will inspire you to jump right in!  Read More »

  • Montecito’s Most Exclusive Community

    Montecito’s Most Exclusive Community

    June 25th, 2019

    A prestigious gated golf community comprised of 142 single family homes and estates with most parcels hovering just under one acre. The gated community was founded by Robert McLean who purchased the 250+ acre Rancho Las Fuentes in 1964.  Read More »

  • What's Happening In The Market? Q1 2019

    What's Happening In The Market? Q1 2019

    April 1st, 2019

    While comparing the 1st quarter 2019 statistics to that of the previous year, South Santa Barbara County (Goleta through Carpinteria) experienced more selection, more sales, and stabilizing prices.  Read More »

  • What's Happening in the Market? Q4 2018

    What's Happening in the Market? Q4 2018

    January 14th, 2019

    When comparing the 2018 statistics to the previous year, South Santa Barbara County (Goleta through Carpinteria) saw prices level out and sales activity decline.  Read More »

  • 2018 Local Holiday Shopping Black Book

    2018 Local Holiday Shopping Black Book

    December 11th, 2018

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  • Montecito's Ghost Village Road Oct. 31

    Montecito's Ghost Village Road Oct. 31

    October 30th, 2018

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  • What's happening in the market? Q3 2018

    What's happening in the market? Q3 2018

    October 17th, 2018

    When comparing the 3rd quarter 2018 statistics (July through September) to the previous year, South Santa Barbara County (Goleta through Carpinteria) inventory rose, number of sales declined, and on average, listings sold at 95% of their asking price, the same as last year.  Read More »

  • Ultimate Beachfront Compound

    Ultimate Beachfront Compound

    August 24th, 2018

    Located off one of the most popular surf spots in California at Rincon beach, is an extremely rare opportunity to own a beachfront compound totaling just over 80ft of beach frontage. Nestled in the highly desired Seacliff Colony, both homes have been extensively renovated with no expenses being spared.  Read More »

  • Spend Memorial Weekend At the Beach!

    Spend Memorial Weekend At the Beach!

    May 22nd, 2018

    Memorial Day weekend is fast approaching and what better way to spend the holiday than out in the Southern California sun on one of Santa Barbara’s beautiful beaches.Hammonds Beach in Montecito is a local’s spot hidden away amongst several beachfront homes and is popular for surfing & swimming, gathering with friends or simply relaxing and enjoying the picturesque view and weather.  Read More »

  • ​Architect spotlight: Chester Carjola (1901-1985)

    ​Architect spotlight: Chester Carjola (1901-1985)

    April 27th, 2018

    When you spend as much time as we do getting to know the homes of the Montecito, Santa Barbara and Hope Ranch communities, examples of historic architecture make us dream of what life was like in this area’s formative years. Today we have the exquisite pleasure of representing a classic Hope Ranch farmhouse at 4691 Via Roblada designed by Chester Carjola.  Read More »

  • Q1 2018 Properties Sold

    Q1 2018 Properties Sold

    April 1st, 2018

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  • Architect Spotlight: The Historic Moody Sisters

    Architect Spotlight: The Historic Moody Sisters

    March 9th, 2018

    With names such as Hollyhock, Sweetbriar and Greencote, these whimsical homes and gardens seem straight out of an English fairy tale. The intriguing work of four sisters in the 1930’s and 40’s left Montecito and Santa Barbara with three dozen petite creations.  Read More »

  • Thomas Fire & Mudflow: January 9th, 2018

    Thomas Fire & Mudflow: January 9th, 2018

    January 21st, 2018

    Having survived the Thomas Fire to then endure a terrible tragedy, this is a story of a community coming together in times of devastation and loss to rebuild and restore.  Read More »

  • $82 Million SOLD in 2017!

    $82 Million SOLD in 2017!

    January 1st, 2018

    WOW, what a year nationally, locally, and for Marsha Kotlyar Real Estate Group! We reached an all time high in sold volume at $82 million, with 22 successful sales! We started the year off strong and proudly sold 9 properties totaling to $26 million in one month. To honor our favorite properties, celebrate our client's success stories, and envy those lucky buyers....we have compiled a walk through memory lane. Below are a few of our sold properties and stories from 2017!  Read More »

  • 2017 - A Year In Review

    2017 - A Year In Review

    December 31st, 2017

    Curious how Santa Barbara's and Montecito's real estate market performed in 2017? Nationally, a relentless inventory shortage, a booming stock market, and attractive interest rates fueled strong home buying demand. In South Santa Barbara County, housing supply remained limited, sold volume grew, and days on market grew.  Read More »

  • Third Quarter 2017 - Real Estate Market Update

    Third Quarter 2017 - Real Estate Market Update

    October 25th, 2017

    ​When comparing the 3rd quarter 2017 statistics to the same time last year, the local real estate market experienced an overall decline in selection, bump in sales, thereby driving prices up.  Read More »

  • Montecito, Hope Ranch, & Riviera Third Quarter 2017 Sales

    Montecito, Hope Ranch, & Riviera Third Quarter 2017 Sales

    October 1st, 2017

    When comparing the 3rd quarter 2017 statistics to the same time last year, the local real estate market experienced an overall decline in selection, bump in sales, thereby driving prices up.  Read More »

  • Santa Barbara's Annual Old Spanish Days Fiesta!

    Santa Barbara's Annual Old Spanish Days Fiesta!

    July 27th, 2017

    A comprehensive itinerary for 2017's Old Spanish Days Fiesta activities and events! August 2-6, 2017  Read More »

  • Montecito & Hope Ranch Second Quarter Sales 2017

    Montecito & Hope Ranch Second Quarter Sales 2017

    July 1st, 2017

    What a difference a quarter can make! It seems that the post-election hangover has passed because the 2nd quarter local real estate market showed significant improvement over the disappointing 1st quarter 2017 statistics. When comparing the 2nd quarter 2017 statistics to the same time last year, the local real estate market showed a drop in supply, coupled with rising demand, thereby pushing sales activity and prices up.  Read More »

  • Local Market Update - First Quarter 2017

    Local Market Update - First Quarter 2017

    April 1st, 2017

    ​Nationally, the 1st quarter real estate market was generally spirited. The South Santa Barbara County & Hope Ranch market activity experienced a rise in inventory and sales but at reduced prices. The first quarter Montecito statistics were somewhat disappointing. Even though potential wildcards like changes in tax policies and interest rate hikes lurk over any market forecast, most national economists are predicting 2017 will be another strong year and even experience improvements.  Read More »

  • Important New California Ordinance That Could Affect You!

    Important New California Ordinance That Could Affect You!

    March 7th, 2017

    New California Ordinance That Could Affect You! Your granny could now be legal?! We wanted to make you aware that there is a new California state ordinance that will allow homeowners in California to legally have an additional dwelling unit on their property. Basically, California lawmakers felt that the housing situation wasn't adequate and new building production hasn't kept up with demand. The state passed AB 2299; the new ordinance that encourages homeowners to legally build an accessory dwelling unit (ADU) on their property (regardless of what their local jurisdictions allow).  Read More »

  • Hope Ranch 2016 Sales

    Hope Ranch 2016 Sales

    January 1st, 2017

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  • Montecito Market Update 4th Quarter 2016

    Montecito Market Update 4th Quarter 2016

    January 1st, 2017

    Montecito Sales for the 4th quarter in 2016!  Read More »