The appeal of living in a harbor is easy to understand. Calm waters, sunshine, and relaxed living are the staples of this laid-back lifestyle. Southern California is home to many incredible harbors to call home! From San Diego up to Ventura, there is a perfect fit for everyone. Thinking about buying a harbor home? Here is our guide to starting your search.
Getting Started
First, consider the general region. Many harbors feel similar, but prices vary as well as the feeling of the neighborhood. Whether it is a condo, single family home, or an oceanfront estate, the entire range can usually be found throughout a single harbor. The region and local market will set the price range.
Personal Preference
The next consideration is much more personal: What do you want to use the residence for? For the casual fisherman, simply having a dock and place to stay may suffice. For others, it may be a large private dock and a home that is made to entertain. Often times, for those retiring or escaping a city, finding a quiet corner or less traveled channel is the focus.
Special Considerations
Once you have narrowed down your criteria, it is time to start doing research. Many harbor areas can be subject to Mello-Roos, special assessments, and other fees. There can also be regulations that limit boat size, sailboat height, and use. Due diligence is essential as every home and area is different.
Finding the Right Home
Finally and most important, the home itself! Harbors often feature a wide variety of styles, from colonial to modern and everything in-between. If you are looking for a project, there are almost always older homes with plenty of potential at a lower price. Much more commonly, if you are ready to get straight to relaxing, buy a turn-key home that checks off all of the boxes!
The Mark & Grether Group Listing: 3840 W. Hemlock Street
How do we know the ins and outs of harbor living? For one, Russell Grether grew up sailing in Ventura and has a wealth of knowledge in the area’s harbors. Second, our listing at 3840 W. Hemlock Street in Mandalay Bay, Oxnard, is the epitome of casual California living. Completely renovated in 2014, this home has exquisite attention to detail throughout.
Located in the back corner of Channel Islands Harbor, the home enjoys sunlight all day yet is sheltered from the afternoon winds and enjoys calm, down channel views. The property features an expansive outdoor sun deck, open concept kitchen, first-floor guest suite, spa-like master bath, and a soundproof home theater!
Are you ready to start your search for the perfect harbor home? We specialize in working with both buyers and sellers, from Los Angeles to Ventura.
The Mark & Grether Group at 310.230.5771 or visit us at themarkandgrethergroup.com.
