If an eclectic mix of architectural styles, residents and cultures sounds like home, then "the Springs" may be the area for you. Just a few minutes north west of Sonoma Square you'll find El Verano, Boyes Hot Springs, Fetters Hot Springs and Agua Caliente along the Highway 12 corridor.

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Back when ladies wore long dresses and twirled parasols on hot summer days the Springs were a favorite destination for San Franciscans. Over time, some of those visitors built summer cottages and new neighborhoods were born.

Today, those original cottages can still be found. While many have been renovated or expanded the casual, unassuming charm is still there. Over the last 50 - 60 years the remaining lands have filled in with small neighborhoods of predominately ranch style homes. Although a few pockets of newer homes were built in the 1990S and 2000S.

The terrain east of highway 12 in the Springs gently rises into the surrounding foothills and can provide some wonderful views across the valley. West of the highway is the valley floor and the unofficial "anchor" of the Springs - The Fairmont Sonoma Mission Inn.

So how much can you save by living in the Springs? In general, the price range for a single family home will start around $350,000 and the price per square foot averages $325. Compare that to the east side, Sonoma's most sought after neighborhood, with starting prices around $750,000 and cost per square foot hovering at $450.

If you would like to see an "apples to apples" comparison based on your criteria, just give me a call at 707-888-9522 or email me at rick.tackett@pacunion.com.