DISTINGUISHED PROPERTY FOR THE MOST DISCERNING BUYERS

Affluent buyers insist there’s something exceedingly special about Montecito estates. Perhaps it’s their location in this rarified enclave of just under 10,000 mostly affluent residents; neighboring world-renowned Santa Barbara, known as “The American Riviera.” Both communities are home to classic and predominately Mediterranean-style architecture, breathtaking mountain and ocean vistas and year-round sunshine.
Montecito, however, is somehow singularly idyllic. That’s why it has been the chosen spot for the well-known and well-heeled to build homes and estates as their primary and secondary residences since the very early years of the 20th century.
In Spanish, the word Montecito is derived from the fact that the community is built into the oak-laden foothills of the Santa Ynez Mountains. Residents enjoy the peaceful, quiet, and safe sanctuary that boasts world-class resorts, top-rated schools, golf and country clubs, and numerous high-end boutiques and dining establishments.
It’s the lavish Montecito estates and high-end homes, however, that truly set the enclave’s 8 square miles apart. You’ll find hillside estates with to-die-for views of both the beach and the mountains.
Come along for a tour of just a few of the spectacular Montecito CA estates for sale currently.

Spectacular Ocean View Estate ~ East Mountain Drive, Montecito ~ $16,250,000
Take this Spectacular Ocean View Estate, for example. If you are a fan of Modernism, Post-modernism, Neo-classicism or Art Deco, then this estate is for you. The 3-bedroom, 5-bath residence is situated on approximately 2 acres and rivals the most awe-inspiring domiciles anywhere in the world. Featuring an imposing front gate that looks like a work of art itself, the entire estate evokes an air of privacy and class. The new owners will enjoy breathtaking ocean views in just about every room, including the living room, which looks out to the Channel Islands.

Montecito Hacienda ~ Sheffield Drive, Montecito ~ $3,195,000
How about putting down roots in this charming Montecito Hacienda? Situated on nearly 1.5 spectacular mountain view acres, the main residence features 4 bedrooms and 4.5 baths. There’s a private guest cottage on the grounds. Surrounded by landscaped gardens and majestic oak, sycamore and magnolia trees, this hacienda combines early California with modern amenities. The property, built in 1941, underwent a major renovation in 2001. Today, it is a superb example of the coveted indoor-outdoor lifestyle synonymous with living in this part of the world. This estate is available for either sale or lease.

Ocean View Ranch-style Home ~ Alston Road, Montecito ~ $2,795,000
This Ocean View Montecito Ranch-Style Home offers sweeping views of the Santa Barbara coastline, the Channel Islands and beyond. Like other ranch-style homes, this one fuses modernist ideas and styles with the American Western period of wide open spaces to create a comfortable, casual living style. Besides the amazing views, the new owners will also get to enjoy an entire acre of exquisitely landscaped grounds featuring multiple flagstone patios, a built-in barbecue and stone fire pit with seating, walking paths and beautiful, well-maintained gardens. Inside, the home’s flexible floorplan includes spacious living areas and generously-sized bedrooms. I love the living room’s vaulted ceilings that give the home a light and airy feel, adding the inside-outside element found in many Montecito homes. Another favorite is the elegant, wood-paneled library with its wet bar and distinctive vintage Asian doors. The kitchen is gorgeous too. We’re talking cherry cabinetry complimented with burnished stainless steel countertops and a cozy breakfast area. The kitchen’s expansive windows overlook the well-manicured backyard. Put it all together and this home is an entertainer’s dream come true!

Casa Señorial ~ Coyote Road, Montecito ~ $3,450,000
Or how about moving to Casa Señorial: A Classic Spanish-style Estate? Charming and eclectic as the name itself: Casa Senorial means “Stately Home.” And this property definitely fits that description. Sitting on approximately one acre of prime real estate is the main 2-bedroom, 2.5 bath main residence, and a detached casita. A lovely pergola leads you from the main residence to the casita, which is itself a tranquil hideaway with vaulted beam ceilings, a sandstone fireplace, built-in shelving, and an intimate loft. The setting of the property is unmatched; with abundant trees and plants; winding walking paths; views of the ocean, city, and foothills; and multiple venues for relaxation, including an intimate sitting area surrounded by hedges. This exceptional property, nestled in the foothills and with its colorful history, has evolved into a perfect retreat with the convenience and versatility of a modern lifestyle.

Somerset Estate ~ East Valley Road, Montecito ~ $7,495,000
One look at the 5-bedroom, 6.5 bath Somerset Estate and you’ll know you’ve arrived home. Located in Montecito’s elite “Golden Quadrangle,” the Somerset Estate offers a fine example of superior 21st-century workmanship and conveniences even though the home was originally built in 1918. Many aspects of the approximately 1.6-acre grounds are attributed to celebrated landscape architect Lockwood de Forest. One could say that the home features the best in European influence with a Montecito flair because the property is reminiscent of the English or the French countryside. Even the custom designed front door is a show stopper. Featuring soaring vaulted ceilings in the living room with loads of natural light emanating from the large multi-pane and clerestory windows. Multiple French doors lead to the private terraces and manicured grounds with their spa, pool, and gazebo. There are 2 guest houses that provide a total of an additional 3 bedrooms. Whereas both abodes offer a country feel, one hosts wide-plank wood floors, an open-beam vaulted ceiling, French doors to the portico, and a fireplace with floor-to-ceiling stone surround. The “west” guesthouse has a comfortable living room, bedroom, full kitchen, and a spacious second-floor loft.
Now that you know about this relaxing, picturesque, charming town, I invite you to experience its Old World charm and world-class amenities for yourself. Check out my additional amazing Montecito estates and homes for sale on my comprehensive website. I also have some lovely properties for sale in Hope Ranch, Carpinteria and all of Santa Barbara’s upscale communities. See something you like? Call me at +1 (805) 886-9378, or email me at Cristal@montecito-estate.com. Allow me to find your new dream home in Montecito.