Filled with character, charm, and timeless elegance, this enchanting Craftsman-style estate is ideally situated near Montecito's coveted Lower Village. Built in 1914 and lovingly cared for by the same family for over three decades, this special property offers a rare blend of historic craftsmanship, gracious living, and beautifully maintained grounds. The 3,974 +/- sq ft main residence features four bedrooms, three full bathrooms, and a powder room, with exquisite architectural details and a light-filled floor plan designed for comfortable living and effortless entertaining. Spacious living and family rooms, a dedicated office, and rich wood floors create a warm, timeless atmosphere. The inviting kitchen is highlighted by marble countertops, a wall of paned windows, a spacious breakfast area, and a butler's pantry. Upstairs, all four bedrooms offer a sense of privacy and retreat. The stunning primary suite is distinguished by vaulted, beamed ceilings and a spacious walk-in closet, complemented by an en-suite bath featuring both a tub and separate shower. A peaceful and inviting sanctuary, it reflects the home's enduring character and gracious style. Set on approximately 0.62 acres, the sun-drenched, south-facing grounds are a garden lover's delight, featuring mature landscaping, specimen trees, flourishing rose gardens, and fruit trees. Charming outdoor spaces and inviting decks overlook intimate garden settings, while a spacious lawn provides a wonderful backdrop for relaxation and entertaining. Secluded and serene, the grounds capture the quintessential appeal of Montecito living. A detached 919 +/- sq ft Moody Sisters cottage offers exceptional versatility and its own distinctive character. Featuring two bedrooms and one-and-a-half bathrooms, a full kitchen, an inviting living area, and vaulted, beamed ceilings, the cottage is a charming private retreat for guests, extended family, or additional living flexibility. The beautiful primary bedroom, complete with a fireplace and picture windows, creates a warm and inviting sanctuary. A Dutch door entry adds a delightful touch of vintage charm. Separate driveway access and a dedicated carport provide added convenience, while the main residence enjoys its own two-car carport. Substantial yet intimate, this lovingly maintained estate is a rare offering that celebrates the enduring beauty of Montecito's architectural heritage. Ideally located within the Montecito Union School District and moments from Butterfly Beach, acclaimed restaurants, boutique shopping, and the village charm of Lower Montecito, this treasured property invites its next owner to embrace a truly special way of life.
Single-familyProperty Type
1914Year Built
0.62 acresLot Size
$2,490Price/Sq.Ft.
3 spacesParking
Listed by Dana Zertuche•DRE #01465425• Sotheby's International Realty
Listed by Lori Bowles•DRE #01961570• Sotheby's International Realty
Filled with character, charm, and timeless elegance, this enchanting Craftsman-style estate is ideally situated near Montecito's coveted Lower Village. Built in 1914 and lovingly cared for by the same family for over three decades, this special property offers a rare blend of historic craftsmanship, gracious living, and beautifully maintained grounds. The 3,974 +/- sq ft main residence features four bedrooms, three full bathrooms, and a powder room, with exquisite architectural details and a light-filled floor plan designed for comfortable living and effortless entertaining. Spacious living and family rooms, a dedicated office, and rich wood floors create a warm, timeless atmosphere. The inviting kitchen is highlighted by marble countertops, a wall of paned windows, a spacious breakfast area, and a butler's pantry. Upstairs, all four bedrooms offer a sense of privacy and retreat. The stunning primary suite is distinguished by vaulted, beamed ceilings and a spacious walk-in closet, complemented by an en-suite bath featuring both a tub and separate shower. A peaceful and inviting sanctuary, it reflects the home's enduring character and gracious style. Set on approximately 0.62 acres, the sun-drenched, south-facing grounds are a garden lover's delight, featuring mature landscaping, specimen trees, flourishing rose gardens, and fruit trees. Charming outdoor spaces and inviting decks overlook intimate garden settings, while a spacious lawn provides a wonderful backdrop for relaxation and entertaining. Secluded and serene, the grounds capture the quintessential appeal of Montecito living. A detached 919 +/- sq ft Moody Sisters cottage offers exceptional versatility and its own distinctive character. Featuring two bedrooms and one-and-a-half bathrooms, a full kitchen, an inviting living area, and vaulted, beamed ceilings, the cottage is a charming private retreat for guests, extended family, or additional living flexibility. The beautiful primary bedroom, complete with a fireplace and picture windows, creates a warm and inviting sanctuary. A Dutch door entry adds a delightful touch of vintage charm. Separate driveway access and a dedicated carport provide added convenience, while the main residence enjoys its own two-car carport. Substantial yet intimate, this lovingly maintained estate is a rare offering that celebrates the enduring beauty of Montecito's architectural heritage. Ideally located within the Montecito Union School District and moments from Butterfly Beach, acclaimed restaurants, boutique shopping, and the village charm of Lower Montecito, this treasured property invites its next owner to embrace a truly special way of life.
Year
Property tax
Land + Additions
Assessment*
2025
$32,614 (+1.8%)
$2,402,990 + $596,207
$2,999,197
2024
$32,049 (+1.8%)
$2,355,873 + $584,517
$2,940,390
2023
$31,489 (+1.6%)
$2,309,680 + $573,056
$2,882,736
2022
$30,997 (+2.0%)
$2,264,393 + $561,820
$2,826,213
2021
$30,384 (+1.3%)
$2,219,994 + $550,804
$2,770,798
2020
$30,000 (+2.3%)
$2,176,465 + $540,004
$2,716,469
2019
$29,338 (+1.8%)
$2,154,157 + $524,576
$2,678,733
2018
$28,806 (+2.1%)
$2,111,919 + $514,291
$2,626,210
2017
$28,207 (+3.2%)
$2,029,911 + $494,321
$2,524,232
2016
$27,319 (+2.3%)
$2,029,911 + $494,321
$2,524,232
2015
$26,697 (+1.5%)
$1,990,109 + $484,629
$2,474,738
2014
$26,291 (+0.4%)
$1,921,819 + $468,000
$2,389,819
2013
$26,184 (+2.5%)
$1,921,819 + $468,000
$2,389,819
2012
$25,547 (+1.9%)
$1,913,134 + $465,885
$2,379,019
2011
$25,074 (+1.7%)
$1,875,622 + $456,750
$2,332,372
2009
$24,663 (+3.0%)
$1,825,103 + $444,449
$2,269,552
2008
$23,954
$1,793,568 + $436,770
$2,230,338
Public record
Beds
5
Baths
4
Stories
—
Lot width
—
Lot depth
—
Lot size
0.62 Acres
Year renovated
1930
Finished Sq. Ft.
—
Unfinished Sq. Ft.
—
Total Sq. Ft.
3,590
Year built
1914
Style
Single Family Residential
County
Santa Barbara County
APN
009103019
Parking Spaces
—
Basement
—
Accessible
—
HOA Dues
—
Garage
—
Features
—
Last updated by owner on Aug 17, 2026.
Climate risks
1/10 Flood Factor
Minimal risk of a flood reaching the building in the next 30 years
1/10 Fire Factor
Unlikely to be in a wildfire in next 30 years
6/10 Heat Factor
7 days above 84° expected this year, 18 days in 30 years
1/10 Wind Factor
Minimal risk of severe winds over next 30 years
8/10 Air Factor
13 unhealthy days expected this year, 13 days in 30 years
Provided by First Street
Historical weather
Santa Barbara, CA • 93108
Average low and high temperatures (°F)
67
50
67
52
68
54
67
53
68
56
69
59
74
61
74
62
74
64
72
58
67
53
67
52
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Sun exposure
84/ 100
Very good sunlight
Sunscore
There appears to be minimal shading by surrounding buildings, terrain, and vegetation.
9.2 hrs
6.3 hrs
JuneDecember
Provided by Shadowmap
Redfin Estimate for 285 Middle Rd
$9,792,777
$102K under list price of $9.90M
Nearby comparable homes
The Redfin Estimate uses 5 recent nearby sales, priced between $6.3M to $11.3M.