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PRESENTED BY

DIANNA ZLAKET FOR DETAILS, SEE PAGE 7

3001 LONG VALLEY RD, SANTA YNEZ

4BD/6BA; ±349 acres • $9,950,000 Kerry Mormann & Associates, 805.689.3242 LIC# 00598625

6BD/6+(2)½BA; ±19 acres; GH; vineyard • $7,500,000 Laura Drammer / Glynnis Mullenary, 805.448.7500 / 805.705.5206 LIC# 01209580 / 01748187

1259 ALAMO PINTADO RD, SANTA YNEZ

815 MANDALAY BEACH RD, OXNARD

6BD/4½BA+GH; ±37 acres + barn • $6,850,000 Laura Drammer, 805.448.7500 LIC# 01209580

3BD/4BA • $5,150,000 Roylin Downs, 805.850.5443 LIC# 01065591

3951 TIMS RD, SANTA YNEZ

380 SHEFFIELD DR, MONTECTIO

3BD/2.5BA + pool house + car barn; ±20.02 acres • $4,950,000 Laura Drammer, 805.448.7500 LIC# 01209580

2BD/2BA • $3,295,000 Bruce Fisher, 805.570.1679 LIC# 00879404

INDEPENDENT REAL ESTATE

DECEMBER 24, 2025

1959 RAMBLING OAKS RD, SANTA YNEZ

© 2025 Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties (BHHSCP) is a member of the franchise system of BHH Affiliates LLC. BHHS and the BHHS symbol are registered service marks of Columbia Insurance Company, a Berkshire Hathaway affiliate. BHH Affiliates LLC and BHHSCP do not guarantee accuracy of all data including measurements, conditions, and features of property. Information is obtained from various sources and will not be verified by broker or MLS. Buyer is advised to independently verify the accuracy of that information. Equal Housing Opportunity.

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Reputation Matters.

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S A N TA B A R B A R A • M O N T E C I TO • G O L E TA • V E N T U R A • O J A I • L O S O L I V O S • PA S O R O B L E S • W E S T L A K E V I L L A G E

is pleased to congratulate

THE KOGEVINAS GROUP

on the successful representation of

the seller at 871 Sand Point Rd,

the seller at 1399 School House Rd,

Sold for $11,650,000.

Sold for $6,625,000.

CRISTAL CLARKE 805.886.9378 Cristal@Montecito-Estate.com Montecito-Estate.com DRE 00968247

THE KOGEVINAS GROUP 805.331.7577 Team@Kogevinas.com MontecitoProperties.com DRE 01209514

DAN CRAWFORD

ANDREA CAMBERN

the seller at 931 Knapp Drive,

the buyer at 125 Via Alicia,

Sold for $5,300,000.

Sold for $4,375,000.

DAN CRAWFORD 805.886.5764 Dan@HomesinSantaBarbara.com HomesinSantaBarbara.com DRE 01923245

ANDREA CAMBERN 805.722.2352 AndreaCambern@bhhscal.com DRE 02158714

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on the successful representation of

DECEMBER 24, 2025

on the successful representation of

INDEPENDENT REAL ESTATE

CRISTAL CLARKE

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ANNETTE VAIT

THE KOGEVINAS GROUP

on the successful representation of

the seller at 1378 Sycamore Cyn Rd,

the buyer at 2416 Medcliff Rd,

Sold for $3,075,000.

Sold for $3,050,000.

ANNETTE VAIT 805.866.1926 AnnetteVait@bhhscal.com DRE 02044281

THE KOGEVINAS GROUP 805.331.7577 Team@Kogevinas.com MontecitoProperties.com DRE 01209514

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DECEMBER 24, 2025 INDEPENDENT REAL ESTATE

Reputation Matters.

3595 PADARO LN, CARPINTERIA 6BD/6+(2)½BA • $34,900,000 The Kogevinas Group, 805.331.7577 LIC# 01209514

338 TORO CANYON RD, CARPINTERIA 5BD/5+(5)½BA • $18,500,000 Marsha Kotlyar Estate Group, 805.565.4014 LIC# 01426886

3519 PADARO LN, CARPINTERIA 5BD/4BA • $16,950,000 The Kogevinas Group, 805.331.7577 LIC# 01209514

3325 FIGUEROA MTN RD, LOS OLIVOS 3BD/4+(2)½BA; ±178 acres + barns • $9,950,000 Laura Drammer, 805.448.7500 LIC# 01209580

796 HOT SPRINGS RD, MONTECITO 3BD/3½BA • $8,995,000 The Kogevinas Group, 805.331.7577 LIC# 01209514

2760 SYCAMORE CYN RD, MONTECITO 4BD/4½BA • $8,950,000 Marsha Kotlyar Estate Group, 805.565.4014 LIC# 01426886

945 ARBOLADO RD, SANTA BARBARA 4BD/3½BA • $7,950,000 Cristal Clarke, 805.886.9378 LIC# 00968247

937 ARCADY RD, MONTECITO 3BD/3½BA • $6,850,000 Cristal Clarke, 805.886.9378 LIC# 00968247

3589 TORO CYN PARK RD, CARP ±121.12 acres • $4,750,000 Cristal Clarke, 805.886.9378 LIC# 00968247

5513 CAMINO CERRALVO, SB 4BD/3BA • $3,995,000 Marie Sue Parsons & Stephanie Young 805.895.4866 / 805.453.8528 LIC# 00629053 / 01712844

5114 WALNUT PARK DR, SB 5BD/3½BA • $2,195,000 Steve Heller / John Finseth 805.252.2749 / 805.403.3151 LIC# 00929496 / 01336897

830 N HOPE AVE, SANTA BARBARA 4BD/2½BA • $2,095,000 The Easter Team, 805.570.0403 LIC# 00917775

1849 EUCALYPTUS RD, NIPOMO 4BD/4½BA • $1,875,000 Deborah Brooks, 805.235.0406 LIC# 01475395

654 CHALK HILL RD, SOLVANG 3BD/2½BA • $1,875,000 Laura Drammer, 805.448.7500 LIC# 01209580

4808 OGRAM RD, SANTA BARBARA 3BD/2½BA • $1,350,000 Ali Evans, 805.980.8007 LIC# 01846603

5595 W CAMINO CIELO, SB 2BD/2BA • $1,249,000 Bartron Real Estate Group / Beth Goodman 805.563.4054 / 805.455.1909 LIC# 01005021 / 00966870

416 RANCHITO VISTA RD, SB ±1.3 acres • $1,200,000 Jody Neal / Jasper Rhodes 805.252.9267 / 805.708.8136 LIC# 01995725 / 02220808

509 FARMLAND DR, BUELLTON 4BD/3BA • $1,050,000 Jenae M Johnson, 805.452.9812 LIC# 01308742

9 CHAMISO DR, LOS ALAMOS 4BD/3BA • $959,000 Ealand & Sideris Group / Hristo Hristov 805.698.9902 / 805.284.8471 LIC# 01766178 / 01978598

5455 8TH ST #95, CARPINTERIA 2BD/2BA • $900,000 Jo Ann Mermis, 805.895.5650 LIC# 00891742

333 OLD MILL RD SPC 256, SB 2BD/2BA • $799,000 Ali Evans, 805.980.8007 LIC# 01846603

91 SIX FLAGS CIR, BUELLTON 2BD/2BA • $795,000 Cammy Pinoli, 805.452.9725 LIC# 02074002

1818 ALISO CYN RD, NEW CUYAMA ±312 acres • $775,000 Jasper Rhodes / Jody Neal 805.708.8136 / 805.252.9267 LIC# 02220808 / 01995725

5290 OVERPASS RD #10, GOLETA 1BD/1BA • $725,000 Katya Sheets, 805.708.2323 LIC# 02061444

522 W VICTORIA ST #B, SB 1BD/1BA • $715,000 Terri Dimond, 805.709.0934 LIC# 01378431

365 MAIN ST, LOS ALAMOS 2BD/1BA • $695,000 Laura Drammer, 805.448.7500 LIC# 01209580

639 ROSKILDE RD, SOLVANG 2BD/1½BA • $682,000 Dianna Zlaket, 805.390.8382 LIC# 01701860

5940 BIRCH ST #2, CARPINTERIA 2BD/1BA • $599,000 Bruce Fisher, 805.570.1679 LIC# 00879404

0 SNOWSHOE LN, TEHACHAPI ±2.5 acre • $22,000 Jasper Rhodes, 805.708.8136 LIC# 02220808

OPEN SUN 1-3

546 COVELO LN, BUELLTON 2BD/2½BA • $699,000 Kelly Mahan Herrick / Calcagno & Hamilton 805.208.1451 / 805.896.0876 LIC# 01974836 / 01499736

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e Sleigh The Competition INDEPENDENT REAL ESTATE DECEMBER 24, 2025 realestate.independent.com

SANTA BARBARA • MONTECITO • GOLETA • VENTURA • OJAI LOS OLIVOS • PASO ROBLES • WESTLAKE VILLAGE 805.687.2666 | 805.570.1482 © 2025 Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties (BHHSCP) is a member of the franchise system of BHH Affiliates LLC. BHHS and the BHHS symbol are registered service marks of Columbia Insurance Company, a Berkshire Hathaway affiliate. DRE 01317331

Holiday Happenings 100 Years Ago

INDEPENDENT REAL ESTATE

UCSB RESEARCH LIBRARY, COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT COLLECTION

COURTESY SANTA BARBARA HISTORICAL MUSEUM GLEDHILL LIBRARY

Christmas poem from the papers of Pearl Chase

ners and convenient spots and holly and the red Christmas streamers are everywhere, so that the atmosphere of cheer is apparent throughout the building. Wednesday night a number of boys and girls from the night school who have no homes in Santa Barbara were guests of the Center at a Christmas party, and one night this week members of a gym class in charge of Recreation Center workers were entertained in the temporary Salvation Army home. An accompanying article was titled, “Tableaux are Witnessed by Two Thousand: Hundreds Turned Away from Recreation Center as House Fills.” It described two separate performances, each seating one thousand:

THE PEARL CHASE SOCIETY COLLECTION PHOTOS

Recreation Center, circa 1920, site of the annual holiday celebration UCSB RESEARCH LIBRARY, COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT COLLECTION

Recreation Center will climax its Christmas week of celebration and parties by keeping “open house” all day with big log fires burning and staging a real community dance this evening. Greenough’s orchestra will furnish the music for the dancing tonight and it is free for all who care to come — an old-time community gettogether affair for everyone to have a good time. Recreation Center has been busy all well, with Miss Bertha G. Rice and her force of workers moving about actively to supervise and take part in everything going on. Wednesday afternoon the annual party for 260 children of the poorer families of the city was held, with ice cream and apples for the youngsters and their mothers. Horns were also given the youngsters so that there was no need of an orchestra. Several reels of pictures were shown, including one of the “Felix the Cat,” which these youngsters always request as a part of their Christmas entertainment. The affair revolved around a magnificent Christmas tree, which has in face furnished the central setting for all affairs in the Center this week, including the carol singing by the Community Arts group last night. There are several other smaller trees, nicely decorated, scattered about Recreation Center in cosy cor-

DECEMBER 24, 2025

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n 1925, Santa Barbara welcomed the holiday season with a sense of gratitude and a spirit renewed. Just six months after the earthquake devastated the downtown commercial district and the iconic Mission, the community was well on its way to fulfilling its promise of a “bigger, better Santa Barbara,” and continuing its treasured traditions. One of those had been established in 1919 by Pearl Chase and her friend Adele Herter, who were determined to provide a sense of spiritual comfort and a bit of joy for those in need. They established the “Annual Christmas celebration, with its tree, its carols and its exquisite tableaux, given at Recreation Center, in OUR SANTA BARBARA order that strangers within the city may have some participation by Cheri Rae in the Christmas spirit,” reported Western Woman magazine. The Morning Press reported about the 1925 Christmas Day festivities in greater detail:

For Our Guests: The ever-present leather guest book welcomed the community: a page from December 25, 1963, at the Recreation Center.

Every year, Pearl Chase made precise arrangements with the electrician’s union to light the community Christmas tree—and with the police department to ensure all went according to plan. She expressed her thanks to the union and the police department in the local paper shortly afterward.

With the conclusion of the performance in the center, the choir marched to the giant pine tree in the courthouse yard which was lighted with hundreds of colored lights. Here they sang Christmas carols. Hundreds of persons lined the sidewalks and blocked the streets in the vicinity of the huge Christmas tree and it was necessary to put several extra police officers on duty to keep the traffic moving. The report continued with a description of the musical performances and series of tableaux that depicted “the complete Christmas story.” It added, “Santa Barbara’s community Christmas celebration has not become an institution and is being taken up by many communities in southern California … and has attracted nationwide attention. A number of persons in the cast last night have played the same parts since the first production.” Those cast members were treated well, as noted in the Morning Press, “Mr. and Mrs. Bernhard Hoffmann gave a supper last evening in El Paseo de la Guerra for all the people in the tableaux and the Carol singers in the Community Christmas entertainment in Recreation Center. This is an annual hospitality which Mr. and Mrs. Hoffman dispense.” As Vie Obern, one of “Pearl’s Girls,” described it, “Every Christmas Day, Miss Chase personally planned a friendly reception at the Recreation Center for those who are alone.” Pearl’s vision for providing special holiday experiences and warm memories and support for those in need continued with the Council of Christmas Cheer and today as the yearround Unity Shoppe.

Cheri Rae is a longtime neighborhood advocate and the author of A String of Pearls: Pearl Chase of Santa Barbara. She is a boardmember of the Pearl Chase Society and the longtime editor of the society’s newsletter The Capital, where this article first appeared. Email Cheri at pcs@pearlchasesociety.org or visit pearlchasesociety.org.

Next Open House: SUNDAY, 1/4/26, 1–3 PM

INDEPENDENT REAL ESTATE DECEMBER 24, 2025

Whether you dream of planting a vineyard, creating a luxury equestrian estate with barn, arena, and pool, or simply enjoying the tranquility of refined rural living, the choice is yours. This move-in ready Tuscan-style cottage is nestled among majestic oak and olive trees, on gently rolling & usable land with sweeping mountain views.

OFFERED AT $2,995,000

3 Bed • 2 Bath • 1,252 SF Living Area • 9.06 Acres DIANNA ZLAKET REALTOR ®

805-390-8382 DiannaZlaket@bhhscal.com www.DiannaZlaket.com DRE 01701860 © 2025 Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties (BHHSCP) is a member of the franchise system of BHH Affiliates LLC. BHHS and the BHHS symbol are registered service marks of Columbia Insurance Company, a Berkshire Hathaway affiliate. BHH Affiliates LLC and BHHSCP do not guarantee accuracy of all data including measurements, conditions, and features of property. Information is obtained from various sources and will not be verified by broker or MLS. Buyer is advised to independently verify the accuracy of that information. If your home is currently listed, this is not a solicitation for your listing. Equal Housing Opportunity.

1740 STILL MEADOW ROAD, SOLVANG, CA 93463

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The choice is yours.

We are proud to congratulate these exceptional agents for their outstanding representation and successful closings. Their dedication and professionalism continue to set the standard for excellence in our industry.

Ani Estate Group

Marcy Bazzani and Stephanie Ornani

ani@villagesite.com | DRE 01402612 4900 VIA LOS SANTOS

tiffanydore@villagesite.com | DRE 01806890

655 OAK SPRINGS LANE OFFERED AT $9,995,000

Cimme Eordanidis

Emily Kellenberger and Associates

cimme@villagesite.com | DRE 01745878

ekateam@villagesite.com | DRE 01397913

9 S. VOLUNTARIO STREET

840 IVY LANE

OFFERED AT $1,395,000

OFFERED AT $7,195,000

793 ALISAL ROAD

OFFERED AT $1,775,000

INDEPENDENT REAL ESTATE

DECEMBER 24, 2025

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OFFERED AT $4,795,000

Tiffany Doré

Cara Gamberdella

Lourika Van Tonder

cara@villagesite.com | DRE 01766267

Lourika@villagesite.com | DRE 02211987

1040 MAY COURT

2760 WILLIAMS WAY

4900 VIA LOS SANTOS

OFFERED AT $2,195,000 OFFERED AT $4,795,000

OFFERED AT $2,095,000 OFFERED AT $4,795,000

VILLAGESITE.COM l 805.969.8900 l DRE 01206734 All information is from sources deemed reliable but we do not guarantee it Village Properties is an exclusive member of Forbes Global Properties. Forbes® is a registered trademark used under license.

THE BEATING HEART OF SANTA BARBARA

INDEPENDENT REAL ESTATE

5087 Rhoads Avenue B | Santa Barbara | 2BD/1.5BA DRE 02030289 | Offered at $1,075,000 Michelle King 805-455-8818

611 Winchester Drive | Oxnard | 3BD/4BA DRE 02203936 | Offered at $769,000 Marcia Ribeiro 805-245-4550

2106 Mt Calvary Road | Santa Barbara | 4BD/4BA DRE 01751940 | Offered at $3,200,000 Ruth Ann Bowe 805-698-1971

80 Bobcat Springs Road | Buellton | 3BD/3BA DRE 01242652 | Offered at $1,925,000 Lisa Allen 805-705-3460

760 Falcon Ridge Lane | Buellton | 2BD/3BA DRE 01242652 | Offered at $1,918,000 Lisa Allen 805-705-3460

7469 San Bergamo Drive | Goleta | 3BD/2BA DRE 01892357 | Offered at $1,395,000 Bryan Munoz 805-284-5794

4440 Shadow Hills Circle C | Santa Barbara | 2BD/2BA DRE 00425344 | Offered at $1,050,000 Jim Witmer 805-448-3921

333 Old Mill Road Spc 157 | Santa Barbara | 2BD/2BA DRE 01806890/02139725 | Offered at $679,000 Doré & Gamberdella 805-565-8629

82 La Mesa Lane | Santa Barbara | 1BD/1BA DRE 01751940 | Offered at $390,000 Ruth Ann Bowe 805-698-1971

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245 Cordova Drive | Santa Barbara | 4BD/3BA DRE 01440591 | Offered at $3,350,000 Elizabeth Wagner 805-895-1467

DECEMBER 24, 2025

2875 Calzada Avenue | Santa Ynez | 4BD/3BA DRE 00753349/01921235 | Offered at $3,750,000 Kendall & Glaus 805-689-6262

Scan Here To View All Of Our Listings All information provided is deemed reliable, but has not been verified and we do not guarantee it. We recommend that buyers make their own inquiries.

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SOCIETY MATTERS

Text and photos by Gail Arnold

Gail Arnold’s Favorite Nonprofits of the Year

t this time of year when readers are thinking about year-end charitable donations, I want to highlight three nonprofits that I think are especially worthy.

INDEPENDENT REAL ESTATE

DECEMBER 24, 2025

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CARE4Paws This nonprofit has stayed in my “favorites” column each year because so many community members continue to struggle financially, and when money is short in the household, care for pets can suffer. CARE4Paws provides critical assistance to low-income pet owners, which prevents pets from enduring hunger, suffering when in need of veterinary care, or being relinquished to a shelter. With its mobile clinics, CARE4Paws provides free and low-cost spay and neuter procedures (nearly 2,100 this year) and other veterinary care (more than 15,000 dogs and cats served this year, mostly directly, some through partners that it funds). CARE4Paws also provides free pet food and supplies to low-income and homeless pet owners (two tons of food distributed monthly); and offers foster care for pets of domestic violence victims. The more community support CARE4Paws receives, the more suffering it can alleviate and the more pets who can remain with their owners. Through the end of the year, Andrew and Kendra Feshbach are matching donations (up to $25,000) to the Albus Fund at CARE4Paws, which funds urgent and life-saving veterinary care.

CARE4Paws Director of Clinic Operations Patrick Antone, Co-Founder and Executive Director Isabelle Gullö, and Board Chair Christopher Harris at Happy Tails fundraiser

Doctors Without Walls (DWW): Santa Barbara Street Medicine DWW provides much needed health care and other services to homeless members of our community. Its volunteer healthcare professionals, pre-med students, and other generous individuals bring healthcare to parks, churches, nonprofits, and the streets. It provides intensive case management, enabling people to transition to stable housing. In 2025, DWW has provided medical services to more than 1,300 people and provided food, clothing, and other supplies to many more. It has seen a large increase in Hispanic clients, likely attributable to immigration enforcement actions and the resulting lack of trust in government healthcare providers. Thanks to the “Big Beautiful Bill,” DWW is at serious risk of losing federal funding for its enhanced case management program. At the same time, it foresees a rise in the already large demand for its services, especially with the closure of the PATH shelter at year end and the decision by the Housing Authority of the City of S.B. last March to stop issuing new Section 8 vouchers.

DWW Office Manager Ruth Garcia Guevara, DWW Board Secretary and CenCal Health Chief Strategic Engagement Officer Jordan Turetsky, Executive Director Marguerite Sanchez, Board President Maureen Ellenberger, and Lead ECM Case Manager Lauren Beltran at donor appreciation event

Immigrant Legal Defense Center (ILDC) With ICE rounding up hardworking immigrants, who in many cases have been in our community longer than they have been anywhere else, support for ILDC is more critical than ever. This stellar nonprofit provides legal representation, case management, and therapy to undocumented immigrants residing in the Tri-County region and facing deportation. Presently, ILDC is serving 530 clients. There are approximately 2,000 people in the Tri-County area in removal proceedings who are unrepresented. Deportation decisions involve discretion, with legal representation being key to a successful outcome. ILDC has highly competent and dedicated attorneys and support staff. The therapy provided by ILDC is critically important for the immigrant clients who left their home countries because they were not safe there, only to come here and now feel unsafe here too. While ILDC does receive state, county, and city financing, private donations are needed to enable ILDC to serve more of our immigrant community members.

For coverage of other events, go to independent.com/society. Send invites to gail@independent.com.

ILDC Case Manager Bianca Morales, Senior Attorney Susana Cruz, Paralegal/DOJ Accredited Representative Ayleen Sanchez, Mental Health Therapist Maria Ornelas Ruvalcaba, Staff Attorney Gissell Ayala, Senior Attorney Maria Salguero, Executive Director Julissa Peña, Social Work Intern Alysse Mastromarino, Office Manager Brenda Pantoja (crouching), Staff Attorney Jordan Rabani-Jenkins, Paralegal Daira Gonzalez, and Senior Staff Attorney Crystal Canela at Toast to Justice fundraiser

L AU R A D R A M M E R & A S S O C I AT E S

2175 Mora Avenue Santa Ynez 2175MORA.COM | $2,750,000

INDEPENDENT REAL ESTATE

Discover 20± acres of lush, fertile land, featuring approximately 17 acres of premium vineyard—set in one of the most desirable areas of the Santa Ynez Valley. Surrounded by renowned vineyards, upscale estates, and horse ranches, this is the ultimate location to build your dream wine country estate. Planted in 2006 and professionally managed by Coastal Vineyard Care Associates, the 17± acre vineyard includes a standout mix of varietals: Petit Sirah, Tempranillo, Grenache, Verdelho, Nebbiolo, Albarino, Barbera, Mourvèdre, and Loureiro. These grapes are sold to top-tier local wineries, delivering both prestige and income potential. The property is well-equipped with RV hookups (including septic), a new equipment shelter, and a powerful agricultural water well producing approximately 300 GPM. Just minutes from Highway 154, the location offers easy access without sacrificing privacy or tranquility. With ideal topography, proven water resources, and a sought-after microclimate, this land is ready for your next chapter, whether that’s crafting a legacy estate or continuing successful vineyard operations.

DECEMBER 24, 2025 realestate.independent.com

Presented by Laura Drammer & Carey Kendall Lau ra@Lau raD ram m er.com 805.4 4 8.7500 Lau raD ram m er.com D RE # 012 09580 Carey@Cl kre.com 805.689.62 62 CareyKen d al l .com D RE # 00753 3 4 9

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BY SUMMER KNIGHT - 2025 PRESIDENT - SANTA BARBARA ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS®

A CONVERSATION WITH OUR 2026 PRESIDENT, JENNIFER BERGER

s we begin a new year at the Santa Barbara Association of REALTORS®, I had the opportunity to sit down with our incoming 2026 President, Jennifer Berger, of Compass Real Estate, to talk about her path into real estate, her beliefs about homeownership, and what she hopes Summer Knight to accomplish during her year of service. Jen brings a calm, thoughtful presence to leadership, and her perspective reflects a deep respect for both our members and the community we serve. Summer Knight: You were drawn to real estate early in your career and often speak about it as a calling. What originally pulled you into real estate, and what’s kept you in it all these years? Jennifer Berger: “I was drawn to real estate in 1998, guided by the knowledge and values passed down from both my grandfather and my mother, who taught me early on that real estate is a powerful way to be of service and to connect with people. From the beginning, it felt like a vocation rooted in helping others. I’ve always found deep fulfillment in supporting people as they discover a place to call home or navigate the

meaningful transition of selling one. What has sustained my passion over the years is that no two clients, and no two stories, are ever the same. The constantly evolving nature of our industry keeps the work engaging while fostering continual personal and professional growth.” Summer: You’ve served the Association in many ways over the years. What does stepping into the role of President mean to you personally? Jennifer: “Stepping into the role is a true honor. One of the most meaningful things I’ve learned through my time here is just how extraordinary our real estate community is. We are surrounded by dedicated professionals who work incredibly hard, often seven days a week, while balancing family, personal commitments, and a genuine desire to give back to our community, whether financially or through volunteering. Much of that work happens quietly, without recognition or acknowledgment, yet it is the backbone of what makes our Association and our community strong. Real estate is a demanding profession that takes years of experience to master, and it continues to evolve in ways that challenge us to adapt, learn, and grow. If my service as President can, in any way, help move the needle for my fellow colleagues or better support the clients they serve, I would consider that one of the great greatest accomplishments of my career.” Summer: When you look ahead to 2026, what are you

most excited to take on as President? Jennifer: “Homeownership education for younger generations. I strongly believe that we need to expose young people to homeownership earlier, both financially and practically. That includes the ‘math’ of homeownership, such as down payments, how mortgages work, and how build building equity impacts long term financial health, as well as a basic understanding of how a home is built, maintained, and cared for over time. Young adults should also understand the role that property taxes and insurance play in homeownership and how these costs affect their monthly mortgage payments. What continues to surprise me is that many adults don’t truly learn how homeownership works until after they’ve already purchased a home and lived in it for a while. We emphasize so many important subjects in high school and college, yet homeownership, one of the largest financial decisions most people will ever make, is rarely part of that education. I’m excited to help change that conversation and begin building real knowledge and confidence at a younger age.” As we look ahead to 2026, Jen’s steady approach, deep respect for the profession, and focus on the future of homeownership reflect the values that make our Associa Association strong. I’m grateful for her willingness to lead and look forward to working alongside her in the year ahead.

Summer Knight is a Santa Barbara native and top producing Realtor at Sun Coast Real Estate. Summer has been a member of the Santa Barbara Association of Realtors for over 20 years and currently serves as the President of the Board of Directors. She’s also a Green REALTOR®. Reach Summer at 805-886-1261 or summer.k.knight@gmail.com summer.k.knight@gmail.com..

Wishing You a Merry Christmas & Happy Hanukkah

thank you for another year of supporting our local, independent 9 SanFrom Ysidrothe bottom of our hearts, 1553 Shoreline Drive 1547 Shoreline Drive real estate brokerage. Your confidence and trust in our business Offered enablesat us to employ local d at $3,250,000 $3,495,000 Offered at $7,995,000 team members, to our continue the exceptional our privacy on this fabulous give back 1/2 acre ocean front lot! Thisservice is a once Rare ocean frontschools, estate onand the Mesa! This providing clientsultra-luxury deserve. cito estate. Resting at the in a life time opportunity to purchase spectacular 4bed/4.5bath property is a charming a vacant piece of ocean front property property boasts ~5,100+ sq. ft. of living Craftsman style home in onekindness. of Santa Barbara’s most overand 1/2 a acre of prime Wishingspace youresting peace,onjoy, holiday season located filled with circa 1912. Today, it desirable neighborhoods. Build your California coastline. Enjoy unparalleled rn amenities, and still dream home to the exact specifications ocean views from every corner this Mike andofKyle charm. Located in MUS. that you desire. Panoramic ocean views! contemporary home. Must see in person! The Richardson Team

The Richardson Team

Mike and Kyle Richardson

Mike and Kyle Richardson Team@mrrealtors.com Team@mrrealtors.com 805.963.1704 805.963.1704 www.mrrealtors.com www.sbrealtor.com DREBRE Lic.Lic. #00635254 #00635254+ + #01902531 #01902531

This season, we hope you’ll join us in sharing kindness with those around you. Whether it’s offering support to someone in need, lending a hand to a neighbor, or simply sharing a smile with someone you meet in town, even the smallest act of compassion can make a meaningful difference. Let’s pass along the good fortune and opportunities we’ve been given and spread generosity throughout our community.

realestate.independent.com

Your Mesa Realtors

DECEMBER 24, 2025

As this holiday season arrives, we want to extend our heartfelt wishes to you and your family for a very Merry Christmas and a joyful Hanukkah. Living and working in Santa Barbara is a privilege we never take for granted. Each day, we wake up feeling deeply grateful to call this beautiful place home, surrounded by its stunning landscapes, timeless architecture, vibrant culture, incredible restaurants, and most importantly, its warm and wonderful people.

INDEPENDENT REAL ESTATE

Merry Christmas & Happy Hanukkah!

OPEN HOUSES Saturday 12/27 & Sunday 12/28 Goleta 4BD,

546 Covelo Ln, 2BD, 3BA, Sun

3BA, Sun 2-4, $1,795,000, Berkshire

1-3, $699,000, Berkshire Hathaway

Hathaway HomeServices California

HomeServices California Properties,

Properties, Jessica Lovett Christopher

Kelly Mahan Herrick 805-208-1451,

805-637-5849, DRE#01489086

DRE#01974836

San Roque

644 Chalk Hill Rd, 3BD, 2BA, Sun

3728 State Street #135, 3BD, 3BA,

1-3, $1,350,000, Berkshire Hathaway

Sat & Sun 1-4, $1,598,000, Village

HomeServices California Properties,

Properties, Marilyn Moore 805-689-

Laura Drammer 805-448-7500,

0507, DRE#01255085

DRE#01209580

Hope Ranch

528 Myrtle Ct, 4BD, 2BA, Sat 11-2,

4004 Via Laguna, 4BD, 4BA &

$1,699,000, Berkshire Hathaway

1PBA, Sun 1-3, $6,925,000, Sothebys

HomeServices California Properties,

International Realty, Brad Merritt

Claire Hanssen 805-680-0929,

805-450-6522, DRE#01855401

DRE#00887277

THE INDEPENDENT WILL BE CLOSED FOR THE HOLIDAYS DECEMBER 24 THROUGH DECEMBER 30 WE WILL BE BACK IN THE OFFICE ON DECEMBER 31

REALTORS:

3410/3420 Manzana St, 4BD, 4BA, Sat 12-2, $2,475,000, Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California

Realtors: submit your open house listings at INDEPENDENT.COM/ OPENHOUSESUBMISSIONS

$25 PER LISTING OR FREE FOR INDEPENDENT ADVERTISERS

Email: openhouses@independent.com with questions

Properties, Laura Drammer 805448-7500, DRE#01209580

ask about our cover home package for the best exposure for your clients’ listings.

INDEPENDENT REAL ESTATE

DECEMBER 24, 2025

realestate.independent.com

7926 Winchester Circle,

Santa Ynez Valley

• Exclusive full page exposure on our real estate cover • Full page ad inside the issue to provide more photos & details • Right hand page, across from an article

• 300x250 web ad online on independent.com for one week • Social media shout-out during the week • Only one available each week; first come first served!

Email advertising@independent.com for availability & details today

INDEPENDENT REAL ESTATE DECEMBER 24, 2025 realestate.independent.com

The Home Page

Do you have an older home in Santa Barbara?

Sarah Sinclair brings you the inside scoop on real estate in her weekly newsletter The Home Page. Come along as she takes a peek behind the doors of grand estates, tiny houses, and everything in between. Enjoy style secrets, garden gossip, industry insights, and more in your inbox each Sunday.

If so, it might be the next case for The Great House Detective!

BETSY

J. GREEN

PHOTO

Local historian Betsy J. Green researches local homes and their history for her column The Great House Detective, publishing monthly in the Independent. She’s always looking for homes to investigate.

ADDRESS:

on the Block

Soledad Stree t

and Far

his c. 1900 home at 324 was the only North Soled ad Street house on Built on a the block of each other. small hill The James between Montuntil 1917. was Gutie A. Blood who referred ecito skirts of the rrez streets, on what built this home was then the and Junior to to as James A. Blood city, this Quee ably overlo distinguish oked the city n Anne–style home out- the Carpi nteria farme him from and trees in the area. when there were fewer prob- the farme r, Soledad (pron dad) mean r was his unclealthough homes s “solitary” , not his in Spanish. ounced so-LAY- father.) The Blood THE GREAT HOUSE s The home raised DETECTIVE six in Santa is paint Barbara — children torica lly appropriate ed his- whom spent sever tone colors earth - this their adult al of that owne lives home. The Emanuel rs Chris most prom in and Paul was Alice inent Lommen Mabe had carefu lly an accomplishe l Blood, who was colors accen researched. The d painter been Saint tuate the Barbara and and had origin al detai ls. The home’s val Quee the slope of its steep parad n in the Flower FestiFestival es of the 1890s as an older roofline marks it James A. Blood . shallower home among the was in the slopes of estate business real the newer homes that with Franc and was co-owner home’s crownsurround it. The by Betsy J. is H. Knigh Green House t of the ing glory cheer ful is the State -Furnishing Empo sunrium Street near burst motif accents the Ortega. The on that popular decorfront gable. This was sold furni store ture — Family vintage. I’ve ation for homes of a every thing pic: The Blood this noticed it on other home here. Keep baby carria from right: Addie, Carolyn family posed on the front an eye out porch , Fred, Mabel. ges to s for it as you around. Front row: Grace, in the 1920s. Back row, coffin s. The comp walk from left to Mary J., Ella. troversy, accor any once caused a con- expla kins. In his ding to Walker A. Tomp ined that newspaper her - Along The famil he wrote that column in with some grandfather had y of James in the Augu built the 1880s, the 1971, she had a 1920s information about built the home. Blood and stus Blood home. Blood firm of Knigh the home photo of the porch. Mary Josep and his wife, side of a buildi t put a huge sign A porch post the Blood family ’s past, hine Hall on the ng posed on facing Stearn Blood, had ily members eled from can be seen that read: Illinois b s Wharf trav— the s next t “BLO

Built by a Pion

eer Family

324 North

History from Near

It pays to network when history of you are curio your us about the that her home house. Chris learne d past and that ’s property had been from a neighbor much larger the family was corroborate had severa l farm anima in the d by a 1909 paper for a ls. This ad that I “milch Soledad home ” (milk) cow for found in the local sale at the . 324 North A few month s after the the home current owner in 1990, a s moved into woman knock ed on the door and COURTE

The Oldest Hous e

If you would like Betsy to trace your home’s history for her column, send her a message through the contact page of her website: betsyjgreen.com.

Festivities, Finances, and Housing Facts

INDEPENDENT REAL ESTATE

DECEMBER 24, 2025

realestate.independent.com

h, the whirl of the holidays: glitzy consumerism, friendly gatherings, and inklings of resolutions to come. With the headlines around market changes coming in 2026, anticipation of lower interest rates has many folks wondering how best to tackle next year’s housing market. While your own situation is of course personal and unique, there are a few general tips that anyone can implement for success. Are you looking to refinance? Maybe you married the house and have been patiently dating the rates since they shot up in 2022. Refinancing means that you do the entire mortgage financing process all over again. Your income, credit, assets, and property are all reanalyzed based on today’s standards and terms. Expect to answer questions you may have already thought put to bed, and provide paperwork you may have already uploaded. There are two primary reasons to refinance: For some, it is simply a lower payment; for others, it is a lower interest rate. (And, yes, everyone would love both!) Be careful if you are dropping your rate and

starting your mortgage term all over again; you might not actually be saving money over the long run. However, if you can drop your rate by one percent AND reduce the term of your loan with your new payment structure, then you are winning for sure. If your aim is to be mortgage-free quickly, it may even make sense to keep your payments to accelerate payoff. Otherwise, you might want to consider taking any monthly savings and allocating it toward other savings methods—such as maximizing your retirement account or getting rid of other consumer debt. If you’re looking to purchase this year, remember that demand moves faster than supply. A rule of thumb is that we qualify for 10 percent more in home price for every one percent reduction in interest rate. So, as folks can qualify for more, or simply achieve a payment that “feels better,” expect more competition. While we don’t expect the run on appreciation that we saw over 2020 and 2021, having a plan in place is going to be more key in 2026 than the past few years. Lastly, it can still be more beneficial

THE MORTGAGE MINUTE

by Austin Lampson

to make a higher monthly payment than to save for the next down payment level. If $100,000 in real estate financed costs around $650 per month, is it easier for you to save up more cash or make that higher payment? While no one should ever put themselves in a bad financial position by extending past their means, it may take a bit of time outside of your comfort zone to get ahead. Knowing your parameters and

planning with a professional is key, even as bots get better and better at processing data. Every year brings new hopes, demands, and expectations. As we head toward a declining rate environment, it will be even more key to move strategically with data on hand and clear goals defined. Take stock, ask questions, and be open, and I hope the season’s festivities bring cheer to your doorstep in the coming year.

Austin Lampson is a licensed mortgage professional and branch manager of Origin Point Mortgage. She has spent the last quarter-century helping her clients balance math and emotion to achieve their financial goals. Reach Austin at (805) 869-7100, austin@austinlampson.com, or visit austinlampson.com.

TheIndependent

will be closed for the Holidays

DECEMBER 24 THROUGH DECEMBER 30 WE WILL BE BACK IN THE OFFICE ON DECEMBER 31 Wishing you & yours a joyous Holiday Season!

SANTA BARBARA COUNTY SALES PRICE

DATE

ADDRESS

BUELLTON/SOLVANG

DANIELS JAMES EA

NELSON TIM EU

$1,250,000

11/26/25

674 CHALK HILL RD

BUELLTON INVESTORS LLC

GOLETA VALLEY PROFESSIONAL BUI

$3,150,000

11/21/25

515 MCMURRAY RD

ARNETT BRIAN EU

MCKEOWN ULYSSES EA

$1,049,000

11/17/25

433 DANIA AVE

MARQUART TRUST EA

PETER F HILF COMPANY LLC

$4,495,000

11/20/25

1025 CINDY LN

JOOHNSON PAUL EA

WARD WILLIAM EA

$2,275,000

11/19/25

420 ARBOL VERDE ST

CUYAMA

SBE LP

RUIZ JUAN

$293,000

11/21/25

4690 CEBRIAN AVE

GOLETA

HEARTLAND HOMES LLC

NEWMAN SONNY EA

$2,650,000

11/18/25

5121 WALNUT PARK DR

VIJELAS LLC

PRICE TRAVIS EU

$2,000,000

11/21/25

5366 PASEO ORLANDO

BITTNER THOMAS EA

SCHMID CHELSEA

$1,215,000

11/25/25

122 KINMAN AVE

KIDS SANTA FELICIA LLC

7190 HOLLISTER INVESTORS

$10,621,000

11/25/25

7190 HOLLISTER AVE

BHANDARI KUNAL EA

7352 OUTER LIMITS LLC

$1,450,000

11/18/25

7352 ELMHURST PL

BOEMLER KAREN EA

KIRKTON RODNEY EU

$1,700,000

11/26/25

7295 GEORGETOWN RD

SCHIPPER CARA EA

WRIGHT JAYSON EA

$1,725,000

11/20/25

6252 AVENIDA GANSO

GUADALUPE

SHALLANBERGER CHRISTINA

CAASTANEDA CARLOS EA

$1,065,000

11/18/25

4589 TWELFTH ST

ISLA VISTA

6588 SEGOVIA ROAD LLC

DEL MARCO CAPITAL LLC

$4,350,000

11/19/25

6588 SEGOVIA RD

HANSON STEVEN EA

VISHWANATH POORNIMA EA

$1,675,000

11/21/25

925 CAMINO LINDO

SCHROADTER SUSANNA

MW DEL PLAYA LLC

$2,100,000

11/24/25

6765 DEL PLAYA DR

DAVIDSON PAOLA

WILLIAMS SHERENA EA

$572,000

11/26/25

605 N SEVENTH ST

SANTORI BLAKE EU

FORTIS OSCAR EU

$574,000

11/26/25

405 N F ST

JONES JESSE

AGUIRRE JOSE

$490,000

11/25/25

413 E OAK AVE

HEITMAN TANJA

ROMO VERONICA EU

$650,000

11/21/25

1036 ARMSTRONG ST

GONZALEZ JOSE EA

PANIAGUA GERARDO

$320,000

11/18/25

1101 W CYPRESS AVE C

MEEKS MARTIN EA

BLUFFSIDE TRUST EA

$27,442,000

11/19/25

658 PARK LN

PROMISED LAND LLC

FELDSTEIN RICHARD EA

$17,270,500

11/21/25

1690 SAN LEANDRO LN

HODGSON BARBARA EA

LEE DAVID EU

$8,300,000

11/17/25

1596 SAN LEANDRO LN

ANAKALIA II LLC

STEIN DAVID EA

$6,060,000

11/21/25

135 POMAR LN

NEWMAN JEFFREY EA

GOLDEN HOUR COUSINS LLC

$5,146,500

11/26/25

90 BUTTERFLY LN

LAWLER MICHAEL EA

LAMONT ELIZABETH EA

$2,600,000

11/21/25

1067 E MOUNTAIN DR

SUMMERLAND

DAFOE ROBERT EA

SUMMERLAND STAY LLC

$2,675,000

11/24/25

2335 WHITNEY AVE

SANTA YNEZ

GUEHR KENDRICK EA

MOLINA JASMIN EU

$2,150,000

11/21/25

2116 REFUGIO RD

SMIT MARGOT EA

DRE PROPERTIES LLC

$3,950,000

11/20/25

1475 N REFUGIO RD

ORTIZ LUZ EA

TORRES LEONARDO EA

$550,000

11/18/25

3919 SATURN AVE

CARPINTERIA

LOMPOC

realestate.independent.com

BUYER

DECEMBER 24, 2025

SELLER

INDEPENDENT REAL ESTATE

AREA

MONTECITO

UNINCORPORATED

This data is provided to The Santa Barbara Independent by an outside third-party source and represents a partial list of recorded residential sales in Santa Barbara County on the dates listed. While this information is public record The Santa Barbara Independent cannot guarantee the accuracy nor the completeness of this list.