Rancho Santa Fe is a tiny residential community located approximately 30 minutes north of San Diego, east of Solana Beach and Encinitas. It is a highly sought after community in San Diego, attracting wealthy families and professionals seeking resort-style lifestyles in California. It is not on the coast, but just because it is inland does not mean it lacks the charm of those coastal towns. If you are looking forward to living in Rancho Santa Fe, here is what you should know.
There Are Restrictions
The residents of Rancho Santa Fe live under rules known as the Protective Covenant to preserve its village/rural feel. The key element of properties in this area is privacy. Lots are typically at least two acres in size, allowing for more space between residences and a more private ambiance.
Home designs are limited to Mediterranean, ranch, and Spanish Styles, and must first be approved by the Art Jury. This jury helps ensure that all homes in this community blend with the landscape while protecting the privacy of adjacent properties.
Quite Spacious Homes
Many of the luxury homes in Rancho Santa Fe are spacious compared to similar properties in New York City. For instance, $6M will get you a 3-bedroom apartment on Manhattan’s Upper East Side. In Rancho Santa Fe, this same price will snag a 5-bedroom estate a stone’s throw away from California’s exquisite beaches.
Homes Strike a Perfect Blend of Outdoor and Indoor Living
Rancho Santa Fe real estate often has outdoor living areas that seamlessly transition into indoor spaces, particularly near pools.
Covered pergolas are particularly popular because they provide shelter from the weather while creating a well-organized area, perfect for dining or relaxing by the pool.
Outdoor kitchens, bar areas, and fire pits are also quite popular as the weather encourages outdoor activities all year round.
Rancho Santa Fe is Exclusive
The privacy protection and rural feel Rancho Santa Fe real estate gives out make it one of the most exclusive areas in California. There are no sidewalks or mail delivery, bringing out a more country vibe that is the complete opposite of the bustling Orange County community of Coto de Caza.
It Could Have Become a Railroad Town
Rancho Santa Fe has plenty of eucalyptus trees, planted by the Atchison, Topeka, and Santa Fe Railway for use as railroad ties. As it turned out, eucalyptus is unsuitable for railroad use because it cannot support railroad spikes. Drought and a rare freeze destroyed most of the trees, so the company ultimately decided to construct a residential neighborhood.
In 1921, the railroad renamed the neighborhood Rancho Santa Fe under its subsidiary, the Santa Fe Land Improvement Company, and commissioned Requa & Jackson to build it. Renowned local architect Lilian Rice designed much of the space.
Thinking About Relocating?
Rancho Santa Fe is an area where luxury, community, and natural beauty come together. If you value privacy and luxury, Rancho Santa Fe fits the bill. Its tranquil surroundings, gorgeous estates, and amenities will make you feel like you are on vacation every day. Reach out to Brizolis Janzen for a seasoned real estate agent familiar with the area and its distinctive features to ensure you land your dream home.
