I often have clients contact me from out of the area who are moving to the South Bay and are interested in finding a home in Manhattan Beach. While most people think of Manhattan Beach as one town, the various neighborhoods are all quite a bit different, have their own pros and cons, and appeal to very different types of people. From a real estate standpoint, Manhattan Beach is broken into 6 sections, but really 5 different type neighborhoods.
In this post, we'll cover the Sand Section of Manhattan Beach- This is the area that most people envision when they are picturing Manhattan Beach with beautiful sunsets, broad beaches and a charming downtown area.
Who - This is really the area for those wanting to be close to the ocean or wanting ocean views. There is a premium on houses in the area as there are a limited number of homes and the demand has always been very strong. The area farthest north, formerly known as El Porto, and now known as North Manhattan Beach offers the most inexpensive homes in the area as many of the original lots have been split and homes in the million dollar range can be found on these "half-lots". If you want to walk to the beach, enjoy ocean views and don't mind relatively close proximity to the neighbors, this is the location for you.
What - The sand section generally is not zoned for high density so most homes are single family, original duplexes, or 2 unit townhomes. Many homes in the area can be found on pedestrian "walk streets" and are highly sought after and highly valuable as it is really beach living at it's best. Homes generally have a height limit of 30 feet with no roof decks allowed other than on homes built before this regulation was put in place. Oceanfront homes are located on the street known as "The Strand" and rarely come onto the market.
Where- The sand section is bordered by El Porto to the North, the ocean to the west, Valley to the East and Hermosa Beach to the South. (see map) Homes located west of Highland are the most valuable due to proximity to the ocean and the fact that no busy street needs to be crossed to get to the beach. The area farthest north is located on a fairly steep hill which affords some tremendous views while the homes farthest south in the sand section are located on flat streets with a less congested feel.
If you really want to live near the ocean....this is the part of town for you.
Keith Kyle - Realtor, e-Pro - South Bay Brokers - 2501 N Sepulveda Blvd - Manhattan Beach, CA 90266 - 310-251-2344 - Keith.Kyle@SouthBayBrokers.com
For real estate information, open houses, and FREE MLS access visit www.KeithKyleHomes.com
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