Local Showcase: Santa Barbara Artist Lisa Pedersen

As Santa Barbara's top real estate team for over a decade, Riskin Associates has the pleasure of representing many fabulous clients. Currently, local Santa Barbara artist Lisa Pedersen, happens to be one of them. Pedersen, who lives in a quintessential andalusian estate in Santa Barbara's Riveira, has been an artist her entire life and began painting professionally at the encouragement of friend and fellow painter John Brosio. Living on the Southern California coast offers endless opportunity for inspiration. Using water based oil paint, Lisa paints landscapes, architecture and cityscapes up and down the central coast.

Artist Lisa Pedersen art studio in her Santa Barbara Riviera Estate.

Aside from painting, Lisa indulges her artistic and creative energies through other forms of design. After graduating from USC, Lisa went on to UCLA to study architectural and interior design. Lisa lives in one of her most impressive endeavors. The exceptional residence in Santa Barbara's Riviera is an incredible example of Lisa's finely tuned creativity. Together with her father, Harlan Pedersen and builder Ken Rideout, Lisa restored a magical estate, circa 1939, to perfection.

Lisa's romantic vision, realized in 2004, includes custom designed kitchen tiles designed to emulate those in the historic Santa Barbara Courthouse, rich wood floors and beamed ceilings. Ocean and mountain views have been captured throughout via French doors, Juliette balconies and intimate patios. A jewel among jewels, a fantastic space has been utilized as an inspiring artists' studio. A south-facing ocean view terrace is matched by French doors framing mountain views to the north.

As enchanting as the residence is, the estate grounds are an idyllic complement. Pathways wind through blooming rose gardens, lush lawns and vine-covered pergolas. A bocce ball court, hidden tree house and sensational Mediterranean pool garden await discovery and take thorough enjoyment of Santa Barbara's enviable year round climate.

To experience Lisa's repertoire of work, visit Porch in nearby Carpinteria where an exhibition features Lisa's work throughout the month of May. Riskin Associates Partner joined Pedersen at Porch for the exhibition opening.For further information of Lisa's romantic and enchanting estate, contact Riskin Associates.

Synopsis: Luxury Consumer Survey

Realtor.com has released the results of their most recent survey of luxury home buyers, reporting on purchase motivations, amenity priorities and expectations. The numbers are encouraging, with 13% of home buyers looking to buy a luxury home and 26% considering a high-end luxury home. In the niche markets of Santa Barbara and Montecito, properties priced over $1M are considered luxury properties. The report also states that with such a large portion of homebuyers searching for high-end homes, trends in the entire market are being driven by the luxury sector.

A number of factors are motivating luxury homebuyers to make a move, chief among them being recent career success (19%) followed by retirement (17%). Investment and first time home buying were also catalysts to entering the housing market. Challenges homebuyers reported when shopping for a high end home were expected. Challenges included finding a property to meet family needs (40%), a limited inventory (20%) and access to mortgage loans (8%).

Buyers were also questioned on the most desirable amenities and what was the most important features of a home. Chef's kitchens were the most desirable with 54% of homebuyers listing a fabulous kitchen as their top priority. That million dollar view! Second on the list of desired features was a beautiful view (44%) particularly of an ocean, the mountains or cityscapes. Size also matters. Square footage (38%) and a large master suite (36%) also made the list. Resale value was also taken into consideration with 36% of buyers indicating resale value as "very important" and 27% feeling resale value was "extremely important."

For a further breakdown of luxury home buyers and information on homebuyers not looking for luxury real estate, view the full Realtor.com report.

Six Insights into the Selling Season

The weather forecast isn't the only telltale sign that Spring is in full swing here in Santa Barbara. It is 80 degrees and sunny this week and the housing market seems to be equally hot with the unwritten real estate law "Spring is the best time to sell a home" being fully enforced. With so much activity in the market, Riskin Associates would like to educate our clients and readers with some insights into the current state of the market.

This quintessential Santa Barbara home offers the coveted, coastal lifestyle with ocean and mountain views and an enchanting landscape.

Firstly, the long, cold winter is finally over. The Polar Vortex quite literally froze the market and as the East and North East melts back into action, buyers are ready (and more motivated thane ever!) to relocate or purchase second residences in sunny California. Additionally, the rule rings true that spring and summer are THE time of year for real estate transactions. According to Trulia.com, sixty percent of all homes will be bought and sold between May and August in 2014.

Pricing is important. Consider it a bit of a reflection on the obvious, but pricing your property appropriately is still considered one of the chief factors in getting it sold quickly. While we have seen price increases into the double digits over the past year, the first quarter of 2014 did not reflect these increases. Trulia.com suggests closely considering comps of other homes in the area and trusting the expertise of the listing agent. Also, keep recency in mind. For luxury homes, give recently sold comps more weight than older sales. The more recent a sale, the more accurate picture it paints of the current market. A hot market often brings fears of the dreaded bidding war. But fear not, statistics are showing that bidding wars are not as common as they were last year.

Another suggestion for grabbing a quick sale is to list your home earlier rather than later. Many homes will come on the market in late May and early June. Listing your home before the "rush" will give it a chance to shine as a new listing and get the attention and activity it deserves. Have your home ready to market before listing it the MLS and keep it in show condition so short notice requests will be easily accommodated.

Marketing a listing appropriately is key. A good team of agents will offer five star marketing services and will ensure your home is as attractive as possible to the buyers browsing the web for homes for sale. Riskin Associates employs a full time marketing staff. Having this manpower gives the Riskin Associates team the ability to create high-definition showcase videos, pitch listings to a network of public relations connections and design custom marketing strategies for each of their special listings.

Spring Seller's Season Hits the West Coast

What does spring bring? Not enough rain, but certainly a flurry of activity in California real estate markets. As we enjoy endless sun and soft spring breezes, (and secretly hope for some more rain to quench our partched soils) we also enjoy what the L.A. Times is calling a Seller's Season here in the Golden State. Discussing Zillow's latest report, the LA Times defines the east coast as a "buyer's market" with many price cuts and lengthy DOMs, and the west coast going to the Seller's with quick transactions, multiple offers, few price reductions and many properties selling at or over asking price. Riskin Associates can attest to this view with regards to Santa Barbara's wealthy yet casual neighbor, Montecito. Despite new listings coming on the market what seems to be daily, inventory is remaining relatively stable as many listings are receiving multiple, very strong offers and opening escrow quickly. Other California markets seeing seller's holding the negotiation power are San Jose and San Francisco. Buyers on the otherhand can do well in the midwest and Northeast, try Cleveland or Philidelphia.

This Spanish Revival Compound overlooks lush grounds and brilliant ocean views.

Friday Fever: Ocean Views

We never take Montecito's beauty for granted. So when the sun is shining and it's Friday afternoon, we like to marvel at the stunning ocean views that our listings command. We hope a little coastal eye candy will get you through your Friday as well. Intruiged by what you see? Click on each photo for an extensive photo tour. Note to Montecito and Santa Barbara locals, this is a beach weekend: 78 & 79 degrees on Saturday and Sunday!

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Happy Friday, enjoy the weekend!

Montecito, California: Niche Market Report

In recent weeks, the housing market has been at the forefront of the headlines, with major metropolitan markets booming. From London to New York to L.A. the big city areas are experiencing a fantastic upswing in transactions and foreign influences. Niche markets, such as Montecito and Santa Barbara are also experiencing a surge, however the specifics are decidedly unique.

One of the Montecito market's niche characteristics is that many homeowners own multiple residences and spend a portion of their time living or vacationing in their Montecito homes. Many buyers come from within the U.S., many East Coast and Mid-Westerners. Internationally, the U.K. has a firm presence and we do not experience the high influx of Asian, Russian or Canadian buyers that the larger markets are seeing.

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In Montecito, over 60% of homes are priced above $1M with the luxury price range starting around $7M. The under $2M price range is robust, many desireable properties receive multiple offers. The mid-range, $3M-7M is also steady with low inventory and a relatively high demand. The luxury market is somewhat slower. Inventory is saturated but we are not seeing the demand. The high-end market is experiencing a shortage in demand, inventory is steady however we are lacking in buyers. Prices are still down from 2007 but have held steady over the last 12 months.

In niche markets, "luxury" or "high-end" properties are often defined differently, with certain amenities demanding a premium. Montecito's unique location, between the foothills of the Santa Ynez Mountains and the Pacific Ocean, provides idyllic coastal views - which high-end buyers covet. Most luxury buyers want an ocean-view, turn-key property with a close-in location. Being within the prestigious Montecito Union School Distict and Montecito's "Golden Quadrangle" is another desirable factor of location, near to The Upper Village shops and restaurants and the world renouned San Ysidro Ranch resort. Picacho Lane, Park Lane and Riven Rock Road are considered first class streets.

America's Most Overpriced Cities 2014

Forbes' Erin Carlyle recently chronicled the countries most expensive cities and many  California cities found themselves labeled "overpriced." In fact, California cities showed up most often on the list taking a whopping 9 spots. Covering the entire state, San Francisco, Fresno, L.A., Riverside and San Deigo all made the list, with L.A. snatching up the #20 position. Of relatively little surprise, Honolulu, Hawaii and New York City tied for first followed by South Connecticut and Boston. Philidelphia, Miami, Portland, North New Jersey and Long Island, N.Y. all made the list as well.

Aloha - Honolulu made a great case for being the most overpriced city with a median housing price of $430,000 and an exorbitantly high cost of living. While the median home price does not reflect the highest in the counrty for a Metropolian area, it is financially out of reach for most of the city's resident families earning the median income of $86,300 per year. Cost of living plays a major role as well, with groceries costing an astounding 55% more than in the rest of the country and utilities costing - wait for it - 67% more.

Forbes compiled this data by looking at Metropolian Statistical Areas (areas with populations of 600k or more), and housing affordability and cost of living index in these areas.

Santa Barbara's humble approx. 89,000 population disqualified the city as a Metropolitan Statistical Area. With is no shortage of adventure, culture and cuisine in the area, and a airport an airport for quick jaunts to L.A., the Bay Area and beyond, Santa Barbara is an ideal town.

"My Home Is My Castle" Understanding American Real Estate Needs

Unique in many ways, American's have a variety of characteristics which set their lifestyle apart from the rest of the world. One of Americans' most distinctive lifestyle choices is their home - no surprise - as Americans covet their personal time and space. Inman News contributor Bernice Ross recently delved into the unique real estate needs of Americans. During her account of the four basic needs of American real estate, Riskin Associates noticed a trend, Montecito real estate easily covers all the bases: safety, privacy, size and retreat. 1. Safety. Americans consider safety one of their top concerns. Safe neighborhoods for children and home security systems are important amenities American's rarely compromise on. Particularly in the luxury real estate market, increased safety precautions and a high-end security system is often the standard and expected among wealthy home buyers.

Protective gates provide privacy to this Montecito estate.

 This magnificent French Chateau is set behind it's own private entry gates. Before arriving at the gates of the Chateau, visitors to lavish the entertainer's estate must identify themselves at the Birnam Wood Country Club's manned community gates.

Offered at $13,900,000.

State-of-the-art home secuirty systems protect this fabulous Italian Villa in Montecito.

Surrounded by protective gates, this newer Italian villa boasts a state-of-the-art home security system. For security reasons (natch), we can't disclose the brand or extensive features of the system. Offered at $17,750,000.

2. "Top of the Heap." Hilltop properties are often valued higher than low-lying properties becaues being higher up exudes a "powerful" facade. Also, having extended visibility (apart from providing a stunning view) often allows people to feel increased safety. These two Montecito properties provide that extended hilltop advantage (and that million-dollar view).

A hill top view provides this Montecito estate a stunning ocean view.

The incredible ocean-view may be the most obvious advantage of this hill top estate, but the safety and privacy advantages are also (almost) priceless. Offered at $9,875,000

A rustic hill-top retreat

Surrounded by 5+ private, hill-top acres, this luxurious rustic retreat's location affords a view as far as the eye can see.

Offered at $6,495,000.

Supersize. Another point of rare surprise: Americans' belief in "bigger is better" translates to their property as well. Whenever possible, Americans prefer bigger homes, bigger cars and bigger televisions. You name it, Americans would supersize it. The following properties are just plain big.

An expansive French Provincial estate in Montecito with ocean and mountain views.

On over nine lush and private acres, there is nothing miniscule about this coveted Montecito estate. An approximately 12,000sf main residence overlooks expansive lawns, gardens and a private lake. Offered at $27,000,000.

AN expansive equestrian property in Santa Barbara

This approx. 13 acre equestrian property features multiple guest structures, horse facilities, tennis court and two pools.

Offered at $18,200,000.

4. "My home is my castle." Americans covet their personal time and their privacy and view their home as their retreat from the stresses of daily life. A home in a quiet, tranquil setting is often a major priority for Americans. These two properties embody the stress-free living Americans strive toward.

Enchanting gardens and a tranquil location in Montectio.

This magical English Manor's private location is renowned in Montecito to be tranquil and quiet. Serene ocean views and enchanting gardens define the estate's placid aura. Offered at $7,995,000.

A tranquil zen garden surrounds this Montecito home.

Zen gardens and trickling fountains surround this chic contemporary home near Montecito's Lower Village. While the location is desireably close to luxurious shops, restaurants, hotels and beaches, the floor plan allows for California-style indoor/outdoor entertaining and living. Ocean vistas and tranquil grounds create the ideal retreat from hectic daily life. Offered at $5,495,000.

The Key Factor to Getting Your Home Sold

A tale as old as time, "I want to get my house sold NOW!" Every seller's dream is a quick offer and a short escrow, but attaining this elusive goal is easier said than done. Location, quality or condition, market conditions, marketing, price... each factor has it's own hand in the turnaround time for listing your home, and accepting an offer. However, no factor has a heavier influence on getting your house sold than - you guessed it- price.

Stunning Spanish Compound w/ Ocean views in Montecito.

According to a new article by RealtyTime.com, a house in a good location will see for a fair price, as will a home in a bad location. Same goes for quality of construction and condition of the house. Listing a home for a fair price will always yeild higher interest than an over-priced proeprty. This is important for sellers to keep in mind, and while listing your home at price x, consider the time on market and number of showings. If the property fails to maintain momentum and intersest, a price reduction is often a beneficial move. Not only will adjusting the price bring back buyers previously interested, it will also allow a larger pool of buyers to take an initial look, bringing you - the seller - an offer you can accept!

Curb Appeal is the Real Deal

Spring is just around the corner, as the season has gotten itself a reputation for being a great time to sell your home, many homeowners like to know where their home improvement investment should be spent. According to an article  by Realtor.com, exterior improvements are going to yeild the highest returns. The article references the 2014 Remodelings Costs vs. Value report, which compares the average costs of the 35 most popular home improvement projects.

Investment return on home improvement

For 2014, eight of the top ten most popular improvements were exterior upgrades. Exterior appeal is often the most important factor in a buyer's opinion of a property as first impressions are known to have a heavy influence on overall feelings. To view the highest investment returns in Montecito's neighboring Ventura County, click here. Below, enjoy three Montecito estates with incredible curb appeal.

A Montecito estate listed by Riskin Associates

A meandering drive introduces this historic Montecito estate. A sprawling lawn and majestic oaks are the ideal complement to the home's stunning, traditional facade.

For additional information on this Montecito estate, click here.

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This ocean-view Tuscan villa's motor court gives an impressive first impression, just a hint of the sumptuous interiors awaiting inside.

To see more of this designer residence, click here.

Rustic ocean-view home in Carpinteria

A rustic beauty in the ocean-view hills of Carpinteria, this compound has been featured in Architectural Digest.

To see inside the estate, click here.

How to Do Well In a Drought

California is dry, and thirsty. Perhaps the driest and most thirsty the state has been in a century. With the state recently declaring the situation a "drought emergency," we wanted to educate our readers on the benefits of owning a home with a private well.

A luxurious Montecito estate

Firstly, and most appropriately, private wells are often excluded from municipal water bans. During times of drought or water conservation, a private well would allow homeowners to continue with their normal water usage and lifestyle, experiencing limited interruptions.

Secondly, and possibly more importantly, is the absence of a water bill. Drawing the water directly from the ground, rather than being tracked by a meter, allows homeowners to rid themselves of water bills every month or, if well water is used only for landscape or agriculture, would significantly reduce the amount paid each month for municipal water.

Below indulge in some real estate eye candy. These luxury properties all include private wells.

An expansive French Provincial estate in Montecito with ocean and mountain views.

690 Picacho Lane, Montecito, Ca

Offered at $27,000,000

9 acres with orchards, vegetable gardens and lake

Private well

Riskin Associates, 805.565.8600 or associates@riskinproperties.com

Ocean view Mediterranean estate in montecito, ca

588 Freehaven Drive, Montecito, Ca

Offered at $14,900,000

Approx. 20 ocean and mountain-view acres

Private well

Riskin Associates, 805.565.8600 or associates@riskinproperties.com

1140 East Mountain Drive, Montecito, Ca

Offered at 9,875,000

6 acres with manicured rose gardens, lush lawns and oak trees

Shared private irrigation well

Riskin Associates, 805.565.8600 or associates@riskinproperties.com

What's Happening in Santa Barbara?

It's nearly impossible to decide on the best aspect of living in the Santa Barbara area. Ideal weather with year round sun and temperate temperatures, a culinary wonderland of fresh, inventive flavors paired with the region's award winning wines, vast sandy beaches nestled against the Santa Ynez Mountain's hiking trails or the numerous cultural community events which throughout the year bring visitors and locals alike into the streets to celebrate Santa Barbara's rich history and modern lifestyle. Fortunately, being a resident of this fantastic locale allows for the enjoyment of each of these pleasures and the countless others waiting to be discovered.

This month, our town is bustling with excitement as the Santa Barbara International Film Festival approaches! The world renowned festival brings hollywood heavyweights up from LA to a warm welcome of Santa Barbara-style events. Take a look at a sampling of this month's events and get in on the action. (Note: when planning your attendances, please note that the average temperature in Santa Barbara during the month of January is 64 degrees and this week's forecast puts our temperatures in the high 70's all week. Just saying.)

January 16th: Meet the Masters, Miro Restaurant - Bacara Resort. Enjoy an intimate dining experience that offers culinary enthusiasts the rare opportunity to dine with Master Sommeliers from across the globe who share a proven mastery in the art and science of wine and spirit pairing.

January 19th-26th: Santa Ynez Valley Restaurant Week. Restaurants throughout the Santa Ynez Valley are offering special 3-course tasting menus for the price of $20.14

January 21st: New Year Modern with the Santa Barbara Chamber Orchestra. Celebrate the beginning of 2014 with SBCO at New Year Modern and dive into the world of modern music! This concert features contemporary works of the 20th century and Appalachian Spring performed as a ballet.

January 30th-February 9th: Santa Barbara International Film Festival. The Santa Barbara International Film Festival (SBIFF), announces its highly-anticipated line-up for 2014. The 29th edition offers a vast array of films representing 60 countries and a rich selection of films sure to delight audiences from all reaches of the globe. SBIFF is proud to welcome many promising and established filmmakers, as well as honorees to join in its grand tradition of celebrating independent film.

January 30th-February 9th: Film Feast. Libations, cuisine, APPETITE! The original lights of Hollywood are shining brighter than ever, as Santa Barbara goes to the movies for a performance your taste buds will never forget. For eleven straight days, Film Feast 2014 is your invitation to explore the best plates and pours throughout Santa Barbara's many theatre districts during the Santa Barbara International Film Festival. If something is made here, it's just a little more special, more flavorful, more memorable. This is where the greatest things come together. Ocean meets mountains. Sunny meets year-round. The good life meets the great life. This isn’t the end but actually just the beginning. Take a walk down the red carpet to savor the flavors made in Santa Barbara during Film Feast 2014.

For further information on Santa Barbara's seemingly endless entertainment offerings, visit SantaBarbaraCa.com. Additionally, we invite you back each month the find out what's going on around town.

The Negative Impact of Celebrity on Real Estate

A Santa Barbara Ocean view estate.

Modern media revolves around celebrity and the personal lives of high-profile individuals, and is no different for the buying and selling of residential real estate. The media loves to know when a public figure is listing their property or in negotiations for purchasing a new abode. And as is usual in the world of celebrities, the more the media wants to know, the less they are willing to share. Celebrities go to great lengths in order to protect the privacy of their personal lives and their homes as possible, and as an article by MainStreet.com argues, often to the detriment of future resale values. The article discusses several elements that celebrities find attractive in their homes, but can be too personal for future buyers to identify with.

While exposing the name of a famous owner can get a listing extended exposure, a dream come true from a marketing standpoint, a well-known listing can also be seen as a negative by some high-end buyers. A buyer may not want to purchase a home which has gotten a lot of press due to a well-known seller being attached to the property. This also goes for high-rise apartment complexes and gated communities. Having a high-profile neighbor attracting paparazzi attention may be a negative attribute of a home or apartment driving buyers away.

Customization of a home, while usually a huge selling point, can often be overdone by celebrities making the home too personal to them, making it difficult for buyers to see themselves living in a home. While a star athlete may want an indoor sport court with their jersey number splashed across the court, or a young movie star may love the idea of a private bowling alley in their own home, a buyer may find these amenities disarming and be off-put by the home as a result.

While celebrity and fame do have positive attributes for real estate from a marketing standpoint, often the attention this garners can be viewed as negative to buyers.

Five Forces Behind the Luxury Real Estate Boom

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As 2013 comes to a close, The Financial Times reflects on five reasons the luxury real estate market has seen a promising upswing over the last 12 months. Compared to the U.S. as a whole, the luxury market has experienced a superior recovery from the housing market bust with home prices in the top 5% increasing by as much as 10% since September of 2012 while the other 95% increased 6% over the same time frame. Read on to find out what has fueled this healthy boost in the luxury market.

• The increase in wealth. While everyone the world over is rejoicing in the recovering U.S. economic conditions, high-net-worth individuals are doing a decidedly more vigorous celebration dance. Recent data has revealed that the top 1% of households by income has captured 95% of the income gains between 2009-2012. Larger stock portfolios held by these high income individuals have benefitted from a booming stock market. The wealthy are searching for homes to fit their lavish lifestyle and are less likely to let interest rate increases dissuade their buying choices. In addition to these staggering numbers, the remaining 90% of the country has experienced fallen incomes by 16%.
• Affordable (Oversized) mortgages.   It's no secret that cash is king in the luxury real estate market, but when a mortgage is needed, they are accessible at historically low rates. Larger loans (usually $625,000 in high-cost areas) were generally more expensive and had stricter requirements than conforming loans, but recently have become more in line with conforming loans in terms of affordability and screening requirements. Another factor is the tax break, interest on loans can be written off up to $1M.
• Foreign buyers. The media has been reporting a sharp increase in purchases by foreign buyers. From Europeans to Asians, buyers are coming in from outside the U.S. with a sense of urgency to buy. Metropolitan cities like Miami, L.A. and Honolulu have seen the largest upswing in purchases by foreign buyers.
• New construction is back. For several years after the market downturn, new construction of luxury properties was virtually nonexistent. But contractors are getting back in the game as inventory continues to stay low despite an ever increasing demand. The country's largest builder of luxury homes, Toll Brothers, have increased signed contracts by 23% in dollars and 6% in units in the fiscal fourth quarter. Co-founder of Toll Brothers Robert I. Tolls discusses the current state of the luxury home building market and it's relationship to the overall luxury real estate market, "The supply of luxury homes is still not meeting current demand, let alone the pent-up demand of the last seven years. This supply constraint could lead to a further escalation in luxury home prices above and beyond normal trends until industry production returns to historic equilibrium.”
• Existing homeowners are trading up. First-time homebuyers are not the sector fueling the increase in luxury home market increase - existing homeowners are coming up from beneath the water, now having the ability to sell their homes and move to larger, more expensive residences. According to The Financial Times article, more than 85% of homeowners with a mortgage in the second quarter have some equity in their homes, this number up from 75% in 2011. Low inventory is allowing trade-up buyers an easier time selling their current home.

All Is Calm, All Is Bright! The Lady's Gift Guide

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Forget the sugarplums, visions of jewels and dresses are dancing in her head this holiday! The glittering season calls for sparkling attire and a fresh, rejuvenated spirit. But fret not, we have scoured Montecito compiling a list of the most luxurious and stylish gifts certain to enchant the women in your life. Read on to take the guesswork out of shopping for your ladylove's holiday gift.

1. Parker EXCLUSIVE.Let her shine at every holiday soiree in this glittering Parker EXCLUSIVE Racerback Sequin Dress ($398). Montecito's newest boutique INTERMIX in the Country Mart carries the dazzling cocktail dress and a plethora of  designer apparel and accessories.

2. Echoz Crystals. The earth's healing energy and chic style combine in these designs by Echoz Crystals. Echoz Crystals necklaces are designed with simplicity and elegance, each necklace is uniquely and carefully handcrafted. The crystal pendants create a bold statement, trumping the need for other pieces of jewelry. With a fantastic price point (necklaces start at just $30) you can gift your girl a collection of these beautiful, metaphysical pieces.

3. Antik Batik. An unique piece inspired by the designer's global travels, this Mirrored Ale Wallet by Antik Batik ($325) is sure to be appreciated by your lady all year round. Intricate embroidery and beadwork applied to exquisite leather create a piece both refined and relaxed. Visit Calypso St. Barth in the Montecito Country Mart to admire this remarkable clutch.

4. EVE LOM. Give the gift of beauty this year with EVE LOM's Ultimate Collection ($275). Montecito Country Mart's SPACE.NK.apothecary carries this luxurious set which includes an array of products designed to enhance her natural beauty.

5. Montecito Yoga. Inner peace is a priceless present, but you can help her find it with a year of unlimited yoga sessions at Montecito Yoga ($1700). Class schedules are flexible, accommodating those who enjoy morning and evening sessions.

This wraps up our holiday gift guides for 2013! It has been yet another year of working with fantastic clients and lovely agents. Riskin Associates wishes all a joyous holiday and a wonderful new year!

Holiday Gift Guide: The Gentleman's Wishlist

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Looking to impress the man in your life with the IT gift of the year? Fear not as 2013 did not disappoint, with a list of exclusive gifts and gadgets from luxury electronics to designer accessories certain to delight the most distinguished gentleman! Read on to find the area's most lusted-after wishlist.

1. Sonos Wireless Music System.Santa Barbara electronics company Sonos has quickly become a household name with its line-up of high-tech sound systems. Hifi speakers and audio components distribute your music collection throughout the home, allowing you to create a unique atmosphere for each room by customizing the soundtrack - controlling the entire system from your preferred device. Find it at Santa Barbara's Home Integrated Technology. (Play:5+Bridge Gift Pack, $399).

2. Louis Vuitton Steeve Men's Bag.Louis Vuitton's coveted trademark checkerboard design adorns this stylish and functional men's bag. For business or pleasure, the versatile bag holds all the important possessions to take your man from the boardroom to the gym and from the gym to dinner without a stop in between. Find this fashionable gift at La Cumbre Plaza's Louis Vuitton boutique. (Steeve Men's Bag, $2,600)

3. Taka Puna Bespoke Suits. Luxury menswear designer Tom Ford made 2013 the official year of men's made to measure suits. Custom made suits in crafted in the finest textiles is the ultimate in luxury gift giving. Make your man the eye candy of every holiday soiree by outfitting him in a tailor made suit by Santa Barbara's premier bespoke tailor, Taka Puna. (Starting at $1,950).

4. Breaking Bad - Complete Series. Breaking Bad, the men's entertainment obsession of the year. Did your man miss out on the action? Is your TiVo backlogged with saved episodes he watches over and over? Remedy these tragedies with one easy gift - the complete series DVD gift set. Find it on Amazon.com. (New from $470)

5. Burberry The Britain.  Owning a fine timepiece is a symbol of accomplishment and status. Shower the gentleman in your life with praise and show your appreciation for the hard work he puts in all year. The Burberry Automatic Alligator Strap watch is a modern take on the classic Burberry design. Find it at Nordstrom in Santa Barbara's Paseo Nuevo. ($1,995)

Chestnuts Roasting on an Open Fire!

Fireplaces and impeccable spaces in these Montecito Estates.

Montecito and Santa Barbara are renowned  for year-round sunshine and temperate temperatures. The enviable climate allows for surfing, golf rounds, hikes, wine tasting and just about any other outdoor activity you enjoy, 12 months a year. Even the "cold front" which has moved into our lovely coastal town, bringing daytime highs down to the 50's and evenings to almost freezing temperatures, hasn't kept residents and visitors indoors, with many continuing with morning beach walks and strolls along Coast Village Road. Embracing our abnormally cool weather, Riskin Associates invites you to enjoy three cozy spaces where fireplaces are warm and inviting centerpieces. To enjoy more of these distinctive estates, click the links below.

From the top: Shadows of Provence, Stunning Ocean View Estate, Rustic Beauty

Attention Sellers!

As Riskin Associates, ocean-view estate in Montecito

The world of residential real estate, especially at the luxury level, can often be a myriad of complex processes which can be difficult to navigate. Additionally, even the smallest of hiccups can cause a deal to fall through. For this reason, it is important to work with an experienced agent or team who has the knowledge to weather any procedural storm. Educating both buyers and sellers on each step of the escrow process - and what's involved - is key to a smooth transaction.

Today, Forbes brings to the table three issues which are regular culprits of a crumbled deal. Understanding why they cause problems and how to avoid them can make or break a seller's deal.

• Financing. "Back in the day" almost anyone could obtain a loan, however much of that ideology has changed and it is more important than ever for seller's to require a letter of pre-approval from the buyer. But keep in mind, this letter doesn't guarantee that a buyer will get the loan to buy your house. So, as usual, cash is king!
• Appraisals. Thanks to foreclosures and short sales skewing comps, home appraisals are coming in at significantly lower figures than in the past. How is this a threat to your deal you ask? The answer circles back to our friends the financiers. Lenders will not loan more than a house has been appraised for, meaning that if your house is appraised for lower than the asking or accepted offer price, a buyer requiring financing will not be able to obtain a loan for the required amount - thus taking their offer off the table or requiring the seller to accept a lower offer.
• Timing. Delaying buyers access to their new home is an overwhelming cause for deal abandonment. Banking, repairs, or lengthy close of escrow can all deter a buyer from moving forward with a deal. It is important to foresee any possible delays before entering escrow to ensure the best probability of closing the deal.

Whether you are a first time seller, or experienced in the process, understand that each deal is unique and presents its own set of potential issues. Taking great care in financial, home and personal preparations, as well as working with an experienced agent, will ensure that the sale of your home is as headache-free as it can possibly be.

Featured Property of the Week: A Stunning Ocean View Estate

This week, our featured property is defined by the unparalleled views and bright, inviting interiors. 

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Commanding a serene hilltop, this magnificent Montecito estate offers unrivaled panoramic ocean and mountain views, while approximately 20 acres provides uninterrupted privacy. This sprawling 12,000+/- square foot residence exemplifies Montecito’s casually luxurious tenor with inspiring architectural elements, elegant finishes and breathtaking views gracing each bright and airy room.

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Stepping into the gracious foyer, a sweeping ocean view is the focal point while a spiraling iron-railed staircase hints at the home’s upper and lower levels. Bathed in natural light, the airy formal living room enjoys a generous, pitched beamed ceiling, an expansive ocean-view picture window and two sets of French doors leading to an outdoor patio and the beckoning grounds. A pair of iron chandeliers and a grand limestone fireplace create an elegant atmosphere.

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Privately set behind a set of double doors, the sumptuous master suite is a feast for the senses. Immediately upon entering, a sweeping ocean view is the centerpiece to room, enjoyed through a set of French doors opening to a private terrace, which rests beneath a charming vine-covered trellis, and a private coastal-view spa. With two bounteous walk-in closets, an ensuite bath with an impressive walk-in steam shower, oversized air-jet soaking tub and an ocean view, the impeccable master suite is a spa-like retreat.

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The home’s lower level encompasses what can only be described as a truly great room. Ideal for a media or game room, the expansive area boasts an incredible 3,000 bottle temperature-controlled wine cellar and a full wet bar, an impressive fireplace and custom-built bookcases, a full bathroom and abundant storage. A wall of French doors open to an outdoor dining room, a tranquil fountain and views of the property’s gardens.

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Outside, the lush grounds are a fragrant medley of rosemary and wildflower beds. Stone paths encircle a trickling fountain and wind through lush lawns, leading to the sparkling pool. For additional privacy, a spectacular guest house enjoys ocean and mountain views and offers one bedroom with a full ensuite bathroom, a living room and kitchenette, and a charming pitched beamed ceiling.

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With vast Pacific Ocean views, beautifully appointed indoor and outdoor living spaces and opulent grounds, this expansive Mediterranean estate provides the utmost in Montecito living.

Can't get enough of this quintessential Montecito estate? Check out more photos and details or contact Riskin Associates at 805.565.8600 or associates@riskinproperties.com.

Architect Spotlight: George Washington Smith

Arguably Montecito and Santa Barbara’s most celebrated architect, George Washington Smith’s unique take on Spanish Revival design has made Santa Barbara’s architecture world-famous.

George Washington Smith designed this impeccable Montecito estate in 1923

Born in East Liberty Pennsylvania in February of 1876, Smith inherited his eye for design from his father, a civil engineer who designed bridges for local railroads. After attending several prestigious primary schools, Smith enrolled at the Harvard School of Architecture in 1894. However, due to financial hardships Smith withdrew his enrollment from Harvard and took a position as outside construction supervisor for the architectural firm of Newman, Woodman and Harris. A few years later, further financial difficulties forced him to leave the firm and begin selling stocks and bonds in Pennsylvania.

After marrying in 1912, Smith and his wife Mary Cathrine Greenough spent three years traveling Europe. During their tour, Smith devoted himself to studying at the Julian Academy of L’Ecole des Beaux Arts in Paris and painting the architecture and landscape of the country, taking particular interest in Spain’s rural farmhouses. Upon returning to the U.S., George and Mary settled in New York before moving to Santa Barbara in 1916.

After designing and building his first home, known as the Smith-Hebertson House on Montecito’s Middle Road, Smith found that many of his neighbors wanted to live in a house like it, and thus began his career as a full-time architect. Viewing himself as a gentleman architect, Smith enjoyed a heavy involvement in the design process by those who commissioned him to create their residences. Together with his clients, Smith traveled across the globe to gather accouterments unique to each individual project. By the mid-1920’s, the commissioning of a house in Santa Barbara or Montecito by Smith was considered the hallmark of success.

Credited as the “father of Spanish Colonial Revival” in the U.S., Smith gathered much of his inspiration from Spain’s rural Andalusia region, featuring subtle and romantic design. Whitewashed exteriors, spiraling staircases, archways, balconies and intricate iron and tile work are familiar motifs of the Spanish Colonial Revival period.

The landscape surrounding the site of a future home was taken into expert consideration prior to design and construction. Working with notable landscape architects including Lockwood de Forest, A.E. Hanson and Ralph T. Stevens, Smith not only created residences, but entire estates with the vision of a full life lived by those who would live there, experiencing the beauty of both the interior and exterior environments.

Today, there are over 80 George Washington Smith works in Santa Barbara, and many more across the country.  Smith’s 21st Montecito house known as Casa del Herrero, built in 1922, is now a museum listed on the National Register of Historical Places, and many of his designs, sketches and correspondence can be found in the University of Santa Barbara’s Art Museum. His works are featured in many prestigious architectural publications including The Architect, Architectural Forum, Achitectural Digest and House Beautiful.

Riskin Associates recently sold this romantic George Washington Smith estate in Montecito.