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152 Montclair Dr
Santa Cruz, CA

152 Montclair Dr

$2,199,000
5 bd • 3 ba • 4,235 sf

This analysis was generated by artificial intelligence on 1/23/2025. It is for entertainment purposes only and should not be considered as real estate or investment advice.

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AI Property Analysis

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List Price

$2,199,000

Price/Sq.Ft

$519

Year Built

1973

AI Property Analysis

A comprehensive evaluation of this property's features, market position, and investment potential.

The Good

This spacious 4,235 sqft home in the coveted Rolling Woods neighborhood offers exceptional value at $519.24/sqft, which is approximately 15% below the Santa Cruz average of $610/sqft. The versatile layout with 5 bedrooms and 3 bathrooms is ideal for multi-generational living or work-from-home setups. Recent price reductions (8.3% decrease) indicate motivated sellers, presenting a potential opportunity for buyers. The property boasts high-end features like Italian tile kitchen counters, a jetted soaking tub, and a sauna. Its location near the highly-rated Brook Knoll Elementary School (8/10 rating) adds significant value for families. The home's size and features suggest potential for short-term rentals, with nearby 4-bedroom homes renting for $5,350/month, indicating a possible 2.9% gross rental yield.

The Bad

The property has been on the market for 122 days, significantly above the Santa Cruz average of 45 days, suggesting potential issues or overpricing. The home's age (built in 1973) may require updates to major systems. The price history shows volatility, with a significant jump from $925,000 in 2005 to the current $2,199,000 listing, which may impact future appreciation. The estimated insurance cost of $7,916.40/year is high, likely due to climate risks. The property's location in a severe flood risk zone (7/10) and severe air quality risk zone (7/10) could lead to additional insurance costs and potential health concerns.

The Ugly

The severe flood risk (7/10) is a major concern, potentially leading to substantially higher insurance premiums and possible future damage. The FEMA Zone X_UNSHADED designation suggests flood insurance may not be mandatory, but is strongly recommended given the high risk. The severe air quality risk (7/10) with 13 bad air days per year could impact residents' health and quality of life. The total monthly ownership costs are extremely high: assuming a 20% down payment and a 30-year mortgage at 4.5% interest, the monthly costs would be approximately $14,500 ($9,800 mortgage + $660 insurance + $2,750 property tax + $1,290 maintenance/repairs at 0.5% of home value annually). This requires an annual income of at least $580,000 (30% DTI ratio) to comfortably afford the property.

Who is this property for?

These details are presented solely for entertainment purposes and are not meant to steer or limit any prospective buyer.

Best For

This property is best suited for high-income families or multi-generational households with annual incomes over $580,000. It's ideal for those seeking a spacious home in a good school district and valuing features like home offices, artist studios, and entertainment spaces. The layout and separate studio could appeal to buyers looking to offset costs through short-term rentals or those needing space for elderly parents or adult children. The property might also interest investors looking for high-end short-term rental opportunities in the Santa Cruz market, given its unique features and proximity to attractions.

Not For

This property is not suitable for first-time homebuyers or those with household incomes below $580,000 due to the high monthly costs. It's also not ideal for those seeking a low-maintenance property, as the age and size of the home will require significant upkeep. Buyers with respiratory issues should be cautious due to the severe air quality risk. The property isn't appropriate for those seeking immediate equity or quick appreciation, given the recent price volatility and current market positioning.
Demographics
Area Median Income

$93,839

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Risk Assessment

Climate Risks

floodSEVERE

FEMA Zone: X_UNSHADED

Insurance: Required

airSEVERE

13 bad air quality days per year

fireMODERATE

Insurance: Recommended

heatMODERATE

7 extreme heat days per year

98th percentile: 83°F

windMINIMAL

Insurance: Optional

Risk Analysis

The severe flood risk (7/10) is the most significant concern, potentially leading to property damage and very high insurance costs. The severe air quality risk (7/10) could cause health issues and decrease property enjoyment. The home's age (51 years) suggests potential need for major system replacements in the near future, including HVAC, roof, and plumbing, which could cost $50,000 or more. The property's price history shows volatility, which could impact future appreciation. The high monthly costs and extended time on market (122 days) suggest potential challenges in resale. Climate change could exacerbate both flood and fire risks in the future, potentially impacting property value and insurability.
Insurance
Annual Cost

$7,916

$660 per month

Financials

Monthly Costs

Price History

Property Taxes

$13,919
2024 Tax Assessment
1.8%from previous year
Assessed Value$1,239,310
Tax Rate1.12%

Location & Comparables

Subject Property
Comparable Sales
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