Author: Erik Torkells

September 4, 2019

The Latest on the Tragic Dive Boat Fire

In other recent news: Malibu hiker died of heat exhaustion; Santa Barbara bus station to get remodeled; Q&A with an Oat Bakery co-owner; changes at Santa Barbara Airport's general aviation; street address reminder.

Another Day, Another Oceanfront Property….

While yesterday's new listing, 3511 Sea Ledge, is a charming house in good condition on a quiet street, today's new listing, 3239 Cliff Drive, is not. In its favor: around a hundred feet of ocean frontage and a much lower price.

September 3, 2019

Due Date for the Updated Debris Flow Risk Map

Plus: Another step backward for State Street; Montecito Association to discuss Olive Mill roundabout and the proposed helipad; an interesting take on the local real estate market.

A Cute House in a Spectacular Oceanfront Location

Eight of the nine houses on private Sea Ledge Lane are ideally situated—right above the beach, but away from busy Cliff Drive. One just hit the market for $10.5 million.

September 2, 2019

The Hotel Californian Is Revamping Its Restaurants

Plus: The first Taste of Coast Village is coming up; gushing over the Project on lower State Street; what will happen to the wine at Les Marchands; the Independent's food awards; Goleta Chinese restaurant closed; best-ever chocolate chip cookie.

September 1, 2019

29-Acre Ranch Within Santa Barbara City Limits

Some recently listed properties that don't quite warrant posts of their own, including a downtown bungalow compound; nine acres in Summerland heading to auction; a 1924 cottage near the Santa Barbara Bowl; and a $7.25 million Montecito house bought just six months ago.

The Interminable Renovation of the Santa Barbara Museum of Art

In other recent news: An update on flood-control projects in Montecito; Goleta to get a new 132-room hotel; Heal the Ocean's program to recycle Styrofoam; the Old Firehouse building in Montecito changed hands; tiny libraries on State Street.

August 31, 2019

The Saturday Farmers’ Market Is Increasingly at Risk of Being Moved

According to organizers, the City Council could be on the verge of "sealing the decision" to move the Saturday market from its longtime location.

August 30, 2019

Oceanfront Compound in Montecito Now $1 Million Cheaper

Also newly reduced: California cottage a short walk from the beach; Tuscan-style villa with a crenellated tower; Montecito farmhouse with a lavender-filled front yard; 1929 house on Alameda Padre Serra.

The Prettiest House You Ever Did See

When Drew Barrymore put 1270 Pepper Lane on the market in 2013, it was ready for a bit of TLC. The house got all that and more, from new owners who didn't just renovate it—they polished it.