If close-in country and a terrific location is what you're looking for, this newer 4+BR on a private, sunny and very quiet 3-acre parcel in Happy Valley may be just the answer. Lets start with location - just 1.5 mi from DeLaveaga Park, 5 mi to downtown, and with multiple routes to Hwy 17 for commuters. The home was built in 2006 and offers the perfect blend of modern comfort and functional, flexible living, with an open concept design, vaulted ceilings, skylights and view-catching windows. A generous primary suite sits on the main level, with a spa-like bath and direct access to a large deck. Downstairs, another 3 or 4BRs, w/added office or TV space, laundry room and another generous deck that accesses the lower yard. Storage and parking won't be a concern, with this roomy 3-car garage, plus loads of room for parking cars, boats and RVs. And while this one rates a 5-star for comfort, functionality, and natural beauty, for fire safety and insurance discounts it has 15K gallons of water storage and your own fire hydrant. Families actively seek out this area, not just for its natural beauty, but for access to award-winning Happy Valley Elementary, known for its small class sizes and exceptional academic reputation. Don't miss your opportunity to make this hidden gem your own

If what you want is big and beautiful, welcome to this centrally located, move-in ready Santa Cruz home, offering 2500+ sq ft of thoughtfully designed living space, with 3 bedrooms, den and family room, and a deep 2 car garage with 220V for EV charging, plus a bonus room on the back well-suited for gym, workshop or added play room. Built in 2012, this one lives and feels like new. Drought-tolerant plantings and patio space keeps upkeep to a minimum, giving you more fun time to enjoy nearby DeLaveaga Park and golf course, hiking and biking trails, Midtown and downtown shops and eateries. And this prime location for commuters lets you skip the Fishhook traffic. A well-appointed kitchen makes entertaining a breeze with ample cabinets and granite countertops, walk-in pantry, generous center island with seating for four, and an adjacent dining area to fit the largest of tables. Market Street easily provides all the parking you need for guests. Generous primary suite has a big walk-in closet, dual sinks, separate soaking tub and shower. Thoughtful ideas and modern conveniences abound with high ceilings, central heating/AC, dual-pane windows, energy-efficient fixtures and appliances, and an upstairs laundry room conveniently put between the bedrooms. Now is not the time to wait!

Sunshine, timeless charm and a seriously sweet location will have you falling in love with this classic, move-in ready cottage nestled in Santa Cruz's desirable Banana Belt. This updated single-level beautifully blends period character with modern conveniences - original hardwood floors, a welcoming covered front porch, and a full renovation 10 yrs ago, including new kitchen, bath, heating, plumbing, electrical, and double-pane windows, make this home as livable as it is lovable. Step outside to a spacious and sunny 6K+ st ft lot with raised garden beds and easy-care landscape, perfect for green thumbs or weekend lounging. Detached and powered outbuilding offers endless possibilities for office, studio or creative space. A covered back patio sets the stage for year-round dining and entertaining, thanks to the warm nights and fog-free days this area is known for. This unbeatable Midtown location puts you close to local dining favs like Lillian's, Akira Sushi and Charlie Hong Kong, Sante Andrius Rustic Ales or Gilman Brewing for a pint and pizza, and Shoppers Corner or Whole Foods for all the essentials. And when the weekend hits, you're just in time for the Midtown Friday Night Block Parties with live music, food trucks and community vibes included. So what are you waiting for!