January Has a quiet edge

Winter thins the Santa Barbara and Montecito market out.

Nationally and locally, January typically shows lower pricing, as many closings reflect negotiations from November and December, when prices are softer. Buyers often pay 4–6% less than peak spring months.

That could be meaningful savings. On a $5M home, that translates to $250k, although results always depend on the property, pricing, and motivation.

However, the more important takeaway for buyers and sellers: less competition impacts the price.

WHAT WE ARE SEEING IN MONTECITO & SANTA BARBARA

• Active inventory is roughly 25% lower than late spring norms
• Fewer new listings mean less noise for well-priced homes
• Less competition for buyers
• Buyers in the market now tend to be serious, not speculative "looky-loos"

The bottom line — I have always believed January is a great month to sell!

What Happened in Montecito Last Week?

December 14th – December 20th

weekly spotlight

Alma Fonda Fina

Ramon Velazquez, the Santa Barbara chef behind Michelin Bib Gourmand–recognized Mexican cuisine, has expanded to Montecito Country Mart with Alma Fonda Fina.

The Montecito outpost is fine-tuning its menu next month with a more casual, refined approach, while keeping full table service. Signature standouts like Velazquez’s award-winning ceviche remain, and we’re hoping the suadero taco makes the cut. See you there!

That sums it up for last week!

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