If you’ve found yourself driving on PCH, you’ve probably found yourself stopped behind a car with a license plate frame that reads, “Malibu – A way of life.” For a long time, I found myself wondering what that means.
I had always spent plenty of time in Malibu – surfing, hiking and dining. But I never fully understood the “way of life” concept until about 15 years ago, when I made it my way of life by moving there with my family.
For the prior 15 years, I had lived happily in the Palisades and had not anticipated moving. We lived in our dream home in the Huntington and enjoyed all that the Palisades has to offer. Despite our move up the coast, I chose to keep my office in the Palisades Village. This way, I get the benefit of both Malibu and the Palisades on a day-to-day basis.
This summer may be the perfect time for you to enjoy both too. Many Palisadians choose Malibu as their summer getaway destination, as it allows them a remote escape yet still provides convenient access to home.
If you are interested in spending your summer in “The ‘Bu,” consider the following before renting or leasing.
Which Malibu Experience?
Whether it’s an oceanfront beach party or a quiet retreat in the mountains, Malibu appeals to a variety of lifestyles. It is important to determine the experience you want to enjoy prior to starting your search.
Some Palisadians prefer to stay closer to 90272 with rental hot spots right on the water such as Carbon Beach, the Colony or Malibu Road. Some prefer locations, such as Serra Retreat, which are off the water yet still within walking distance to the beaches and shops.
Others seek out the seclusion and scenery that “deep” Malibu has to offer – places like Trancas Canyon or Point Dume offer a feeling of nature and isolation that cannot be matched.
When to Look?
The most popular months for Malibu rentals are June, July and August. Because of this, most Palisadians reserve their rentals as early as February or March. Although rentals can still be found as the summer months approach, you will improve your chances of accommodating your summer rental wish list if you start your search early.
What to Look For?
When transitioning from the convenience of life in the Palisades to the upscale beach-town vibe of Malibu, there are multiple factors to consider when determining which area makes the most sense for you.
Do you picture yourself being perched high up in a canyon surrounded by mountains and overlooking the ocean? Do you want to step out your back door right on to the beach? Do you want to be within walking distance to boutiques, restaurants and coffee shops?
Before making your choice, it is also important to consider factors like traffic and parking, as Malibu becomes a summer hotspot for visitors from around the world.
Determining your parking needs and your most frequently traveled routes will likely impact which location will be the most convenient and enjoyable for your summer away from the city.
Why Use an Agent?
For a scenario as casual as a summer rental, it may not seem obvious to use an agent. But the expertise of an agent will be paramount in finding exactly what you are looking for at the best price. Malibu sees a large influx of “non-locals” every summer season and an agent can ensure the transaction stays fair market value for everyone involved.
An agent also plays an important role in making sure that all of the details of check-in/check-out lists, lease terms and contract language are followed correctly. Likewise, an agent can offer value through creative negotiating, networking and searching both on-market and off-market properties to help you find the best fit.
Last but not least, the greatest advantage to using an agent is that it will cost you nothing. The cost of agent services is always picked up by the seller/lessor.
An agent will always make sure your best interests are legally represented, honored and contractually protected, eliminating stress from the transaction and freeing you up to plan and begin enjoying your slice of the “Malibu Life” this upcoming summer.
– Kate Targanski contributed to this article.
For more information on pursuing a summer rental in Malibu, contact Robert Radcliffe of The Radcliffe Group at Sotheby’s International Realty (310) 255-5454 rob@robertradcliffe.com.
This page is available to subscribers. Click here to sign in or get access.
