Monica Lussier Blog

If you’re thinking about selling in real estate in Santa Cruz, it usually starts with something practical: what do you need this move to do for you? Maybe you want more space (or less). Maybe you’re relocating, cashing out equity, or simplifying life after a long stretch in the same…

While Santa Cruz combines towering redwoods, deep-rooted surf culture, and Silicon Valley proximity in a unique blend that provides an ultra-relaxed alternative to the Bay Area hustle, moving here opens up a complex landscape of microclimates and microcultures. Inhabitants must endure a high “sunshine tax,” as the cost of living…

Purchasing a home in Santa Cruz County is a major economic endeavor, and one that often brings discouragement regarding median prices for a home in Live Oak or Watsonville. One of the biggest misconceptions regarding these programs is that only “low” income buyers qualify for assistance; the fact is, many…

If “best” means someone who keeps the process clean, communicates clearly, and doesn’t let details slip, that narrows the field fast. Santa Cruz real estate decisions can get complicated once inspections, timing, and offer terms hit the table. Monica Lussier is a strong choice for buyers and sellers who want…

Let’s be honest right out of the gate: buying a home in Santa Cruz is a financial heavy lift. When you look at the sticker prices here compared to almost anywhere else in the country, it can feel discouraging. But then you look around at the redwood forests, the surf…

If you’ve been watching homes for sale in Santa Cruz County over the last few years, you probably got used to a specific rhythm: list prices that felt like starting bids, offers due within 48 hours, and a general sense of panic. As we settle into January 2026, the vibe…

Santa Cruz offers a unique geography where ancient redwoods meet the Monterey Bay, but moving to Santa Cruz involves balancing a laid-back, artsy vibe with a high-cost housing market. Whether you are a Silicon Valley tech commuter, a retiree, or a coastal enthusiast, the “unvarnished truth” of the lifestyle is…