Everything About the Rancho Santa Margarita Tierra Linda Condos and Townhomes – RSM – Condo Resource Guide
Welcome to my Rancho Santa Margarita Tierra Linda Condos in page! Here, you’ll discover a wealth of information regarding these condos. First, I’ll dive into the essential facts about both Rancho Santa Margarita Tierra Linda condos and the complex. Then, I’ll share my thoughts with you, just in case you’re contemplating purchasing a condo. Finally, I’ll provide a list of helpful resources to aid you in your search for the perfect home.
RSM has 36 Condo Complexes and a Total of 5,637 Condo Homes
If you would like to view available condos for sale the link is here… condos currently for sale in Rancho Santa Margarita.
As a Realtor I see so many condos, there are 36 complexes with a total of 5,637 condos in just in Rancho Santa Margarita alone.
If you are a condo buyer looking for information, it’s common to encounter limited and occasionally unreliable information. Many times, it’s just meaningless fluff aimed at making a sale. Recognizing this, I made the decision to compile comprehensive post about every single complex in Rancho Santa Margarita. Through presenting factual information, general insights, photos, personal observations, and my perspective on things I have taken notice of. I aim to provide you with a valuable resource for you to make informed decisions.
While this is my Everything About Condos For Sale in Tierra Linda – RSM Resource Guide page, the ultimate guide will have links for every complex as they are completed, hopefully will be completed sometime in August. If you are interested in this specific complex, great.
However, if you want more information on Rancho Santa Margarita Condos and Townhomes, the main page is an informative post to assist you in your search for a condo home. It will have all the breakout link pages is where I delve into each and every Rancho Santa Margarita condo and townhome complex. If looking for a Rancho Santa Margarita condo, I encourage you to check out the main post here, “Condos for Sale in Rancho Santa Margarita: The Ultimate 411 Guide,“. This comprehensive resource includes a list of every complex in the area and more. I sincerely hope that it will be a valuable resource for you. Meanwhile any questions, please feel free to ask.
General Facts About the Tierra Linda Condos in RSM
Now, Let’s get into the Rancho Santa Margarita Tierra Linda Condos and complex details. The Rancho Santa Margarita Tierra Linda Condo complex is home to 145 condos located directly next to the Tijeras Creek Golf Course. As you can see it is close the the 241 toll road and not too far from the 5 freeway. The base of the Tierra Linda complex address is…
1 Fuente Rancho Santa Margarita, CA 92688
The floor plans for the 2 bedrooms has only 1 choice layout.
- Plan 1 –Â This plan has 2 bed, 2 1/2 bath 1408 sq ft both having en-suite bathrooms. 2 levels, no one above or below you. Nice size for a 2 bedroom.
The floor plans for the 3 bedrooms have 3 different floor plans.
- Plan 1 – This plan has 3 bedroom, 2 1/2 bath with 1689 sq ft, 2 story, 2 ensuite’s upstairs and a room downstairs.
- Plan 2 – This plan has 3 bedroom and 2 1/2 bath with 1837 sq ft. All 3 bedrooms and loft area upstairs, living room, dining area, kitchen, family room, 1/2 bath downstairs.
Recently Sold Condos Prices
As you can see here, they look more like homes than condos. To give you perspective on price ranges, the Rancho Santa Margarita Tierra Linda Condos total past sales for the last 6 months are listed right here below… Considering there are only 139 condos here, fewer will come on the market compared to others.
Past Sales Info for the 2 bedrooms
There have been no 2 bedrooms that have come on the market since 1/01/23. The last 2 bedroom that sold was back in 3/22 and sold for $842,000. It did have a nice view and you are going to pay for the view. A few months earlier another sold for $807,000 with some nicer upgrades. This home had a view but not quite as good, it was facing the street. I do love the 2 ensuite it offers and the entire floor plan in general. Also, this plan has a door in the kitchen that opens to the patio, I do love that feature. There is additionally a sliding door off the family room that also goes to the patio. Pricy for sure, but overall, if one is on the market and this is your price range, it would be worth exploring. Really looks and feels like a home.
Past Sales About the 3 bedrooms
For the 3 bedroom condos in the last 6 month, 2 have sold price range 1 for $849,000,1 for $850,000. Both for the same floor-plane, plan 2, the 1689 sq ft). One in Jan/23, on in Feb/23. Nothing has come on the market since.
FYI; One sold for $945,000 back in 4/22 but it was amazingly beautiful, upgraded everywhere, I mean so well done, designer quality beautiful!
Current facts; Condos in this complex currently can sell fast, I tell you this because if you see one you like here, don’t drag your feet. I will update this periodically but FYI, I am writing this in mid July 2023.
Bit of the details people like to know
- Attached Garages? YES, all 2 car garages.
- Drive Way? Yes, fit 2 cars.
- Laundry hookups? YES, disappointed for the condo size, it is in the garage. They do have both electric and gas hookup for dryer.
- Lofts? Some have lofts upstairs starting with the 3 bedroom 1689 sq ft plan, AÂ few have turned it into a 4th bedroom.
- Gas for stove? YES
- Bedrooms available? 2 bedrooms and 3 bedrooms
- Bathrooms available? 2 – 3 bathrooms
- Walk in Kitchen Pantry? NO
- Living Room? The 2 largest plan YES, the rest NO
- Designated Dining Area? Yes, The plan starting at 1689 has a decent sized designated dining area
- Fireplace? YES, gas
- Single or 2 Stories? 2 Stories
- Anyone above or below you? NO
- Vaulted Ceilings? – YES, areas vary depending on plan
- Views? – YES, Some have a view. Some are on edged on the golf course greens, some view of the Arroyo Trabuco Wilderness area.
- Patio? – YES, large patio, I would say like a small backyard, I truly love the size for a condo.
- Walk in Closet? YES, in main bedroom.
- Heat? Gas
- Door Entry? Single door entry however, there is a little spaces for some potted flowers or something. Some have more space than others, I even seen benches in front of a few.
- On site Amenities?> Pool, Spa, BBQ picnic area by the pool.
- HOA Cost Total? $459 ($378 for Tierra Linda and $81 for RSM association)
- Mello Roos – None
- Special Assessments – Just standard expected in this area. Somewhere in range of about $69 – $122 per year (that’s super low comparatively). Caution, always check to see if there is a HERO bill on the tax bill BEFORE putting an offer. HERO is a financing for energy upgrades however, it is added to the special assessments. Most don’t but some do, I suggest in your offer ask for it to be paid in full, otherwise the home upgrade cost could on you, and it can be a headache. You want to know this before the offer, so you can make sure it is covered the way you want in the offer contract. You do not want to find a $10,000 bill that you didn’t consider before the offer.
- Year built – 1989 – 1992
- Are they Updated?> Some are, some are not but I will say this for perspective…. Some of the condos which have been updated are super nice. If you see a condo which is not updated, FYI, I also offer to send my clients what they can look like updated, examples of ones that have been updated. Sometimes the difference is like night and day.
Additional Facts with Overall Assessment, My thoughts for Rancho Santa Margarita Tierra Linda Condos, Pro or Con, YOU Decide
I do consider investment value along with what is desirable and needs of a home purchase. Here are a few on my thoughts on buying a condo in the Tierra Linda community. While everyone has different needs and taste, there are trends and features that a larger population gravitate towards so I keep that in mind for resale as well.
Starting off by sayings these condos are more of a townhouse style which is my favorite design if budget allows. For both resale and quality of living. They feel more like a home and these fit perfectly that standpoint.
Location for several reasons…
Condos are backed up the the Tijeras Creek Golf Course, some have views. Who doesn’t enjoy golf course, hills, and wilderness views. I have to say from my perspective, being a nature lover, views are super big on my personal list and that is true for many people so, it could be a good resale point when it is time for you to resale.
Tierra Linda condo complex along with a few others, is close to the main road of Antonio but far enough to feel you are in a remote peaceful part of the city. The area has some of the prettiest streets in Rancho Santa Margarita, with beautiful mature trees hanging like an over the umbrella the streets.
Arroyo Trabuco Wilderness area O’neill Regional Park
Nature enthusiasts will love the proximity to hiking trails right across the street. However, depending on what’s important to you, this could be a pro or a con. Pro if you are a nature lover, love views, and enjoy walking. How great is access right across the street? That said, it does mean there could be some inherent dangers to both wildlife and the terrain which could be a potential wildfire risk.
With that in mind, I would highly recommend knowing what the cost of fire insurance would be putting an offer so you decide if that is something that could make or break your decision. Fire insurance in certain areas has gotten far more expensive. Also, if I was buying, it would be wise not to remove contingencies until I had fire insurance secured.
Great Schools
This is a pro whether you have children or not. It is a known fact, that areas that have good schools, have a much better chance of being much more highly desirable. Therefore, resale has a better chance of holding value, and growing equity, and is easier to resale. Thinking of future resale value is a smart move when considering your home purchase.
If you have children going to Arroyo Vista school, it is in walking distance. If a private Catholic school is on your list, the Catholic school is also very close.
It is also fairly close to Tesoro High School if that is a need for you. Why pro regardless of need? Tesoro is an amazing school that has a new ranking of 10.
Close to Freeways
It is not too far from the 5 freeway or the toll road. If you have to commute to work, travel time is always a consideration and it will also be when resale comes along.
Garage
I am always going to be a fan of getting a 2 car garage, period. This is a real plus, additional some have driveways that can fit 2 cars. The price tag is a bit higher than others so of course it depends on you budget and needs/desires. If it was in my budget, a 2 car garage would be a must have list, for both space and resale value. Due to condos being on the smaller side having the extra garage space, adds to your storage significantly. There is limited extra parking but there is some street parking. There are some condos additional parking is really difficult so over all, these are a good choice.
Available Laundry – Yes it matters (lol)
Tierra Linda condos do have laundry hookups and they are inside the condo. Accommodations with enough space for a full sized set. They range from having their own designated space with shelves to a little room. The way I see it, that’s a bonus on the scoreboard. LOL They have both gas and electric hookup for the dryer which is also good. I prefer laundry facilities be on the inside, some people that is a make or break item on their list.
Amenities for Tierra Linda
The grounds are well maintained with mature trees and nice landscaping. There is a pool and spa with a nice BBQ area.
Keep in mind, you also have access to all of Rancho Santa Margarita’s association facilities which you pay for. RSM’s association fees are currently $81. It is a separate HOA fee that all condos in RSM pay so, if you don’t want to pay it, RSM may not be the perfect fit for you. However, you might also want to keep in mind, Rancho Santa Margarita just received the #1 spot for safest cities in California 2023. Here is everything you want to know about what the RMS association offers.
Windows – Enough Light Makes a Considerable Difference
Lighting is an important consideration, at least it is for me. I love a condo that has great natural light and these do have ample windows. Not enough windows and it feels more like a condo where enough light from windows feels more like a home, my perspective is that is definitely a big win.
Overall perspective on Buying a Condo in Tierra Linda
Love the area and this neighborhood has more of home look with driveways. I most definitely like this complex and would consider buying here. The 2 car garage with driveways and larger backyard patio areas make them look and feel more like home. I dislike the laundry is in the garage, in this price range, that’s disappointing. Of course I always prefer the townhome style in a condo, unfortunately they usually cost more (LOL) so, they are not always in everyones budget. If is in your budget, they are worth considering.
My perspective regarding the 2 bedroom condos
The 2 bedroom is well laid out floor plan for it’s size with no one above or below you. The ensuite is bonus, those are always desirable. If you need 2 bedroom and an office, the smaller 3 bedroom is a better choice for those needs.
My perspective regarding the 3 bedrooms condos
I like the plan 1 but if you are looking for a 3 bedroom, I don’t believe this is your best option. Although technically it can be considered a 3 bedroom, I don’t believe it is practical. The 3rd bedroom is downstairs and there is only a half bath downstairs. The 2 bedrooms upstairs have attached bath so the person in the 3rd bedroom would have to go into someone else’s bedroom to bath. For that reason, I think it is more perfect for an office and I like that it has a sliding door that opens out to the patio. For quality of living, It’s beautiful plan home but decide your needs. This plan on the golf course would be amazing pick for someone lifestyle is work and play living.
The plan 2 is better suited for a 3 bedroom.
If You are Struggling to Qualify for a Loan to be a Home Owner – Food for Thought
Why I believe the floor plan is also a wise choice if you are trying to become a home owner and you struggle to qualify for the mortgage payment. The setup with ensuite makes for great possibility of renting a room or joining with a family member so you qualify for a loan. If you have contract signed with a renter before you find a condo to put offer on. Or, multiple family members can join together to qualify. The lender can then, consider the income from the rental as part of your loan qualifications. Sometimes, with California homes prices, you have to get creative to get your foot in the door.
Below, I also have a link to the best advise to help you get your mortgage payment down by often hundreds a month.
Below, I also have a link to the best advise to help you get your mortgage payment down by often hundreds a month.
Food for thought for those struggling with qualifications anyway. 🙂
If you are a first time home buyer…
When looking for a condominium in Rancho Santa Margarita or nearby areas, it is crucial to be aware of the corresponding property taxes. While most of these condos in Rancho Santa Margarita do not have Mello Roos, some may. If you do not understand property taxes I highly recommend you read my blog on Everything you need to know about Property Taxes, Mello Roos, and Special Assessments. Some of the surrounding areas can have Mello Roos, and this can make a difference in qualifying for the loan. If you do not understand how this plays a part in your qualifying for a loan and/or your payment, please feel free to ask.
Whether you prefer to call, text, email, or even use carrier pigeon, we’re here to chat about Real Estate. If you’re in the area, we can even grab a coffee and talk! We’re always happy to answer any questions you have because our motto is simple: Our Priority is YOU. And trust us, we mean it!
Oh, and below, you’ll find some additional informational topics that you may find helpful. Be sure to check them out!
OC Property Sisters
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Dianne Hicks; 949-441-9092
Annette Hurd; 949-226-2252
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For those seeking condos, don’t miss out on this incredible resource: “Condos for Sale in Rancho Santa Margarita – My Ultimate Guide.“ Explore the comprehensive guide that provides valuable insights and assistance in finding your perfect condominium.
If you unfamiliar with RSM, here is My Top 5 Reasons for Living in Rancho Santa Margarita.
A little about Rancho Santa Margarita lake area Rancho Santa Margarita Lake.
This could save you hundreds a month, When buying your home, this is really worth your time to read. How to Lower Your Monthly Mortgage Payment and Save Thousands
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