Your Santa Ynez Valley Real Estate & Mortgage Experts

Common Questions Buyers Ask

Can you help if I live outside the area? Yes, we work with Los Angeles, Bay Area and Foreign buyers purchasing second homes, vineyards, and ranch properties.

Do you handle both real-estate and mortgage steps? Yes, our dual licenses cover the full transaction from home search to funding to building your dream home.

Do you offer land or construction loans?
Yes. We offer one-time-close loans that combine land purchase and construction financing into one process.

What areas do you serve?
Santa Ynez, Solvang, Los Olivos, Los Alamos, Ballard, Buellton, and nearby Central Coast communities.

Jump straight to Zillow searches for Santa Ynez Valley.

How We Help

Invest in Santa Ynez Valley | Exclusive market insights • Quicker approvals • Regional strategies

Finance or Refinance | EZ Jumbos • HELOC • Cash withdrawal • Same day pre-approvals

Moving to Wine Country | LA→SYV concierge • Virtual tours • Educational institutions

Customer reviews

"I have used Black Oak Homes & Mortgages on multiple mortgages. I got a superior personal concierge service from Cris Lapp. Cris is tenacious and really fights for his clients. Cris holds your hand through the tedious process of getting a new loan. I would highly recommend this company. I referred friends and family to Cris and everyone is grateful for the referral. Black Homes & Mortgage is the way lending was in the past and should still be! This company is a gem! Here is a photo of the home Cris helped me secure. Eternally grateful for his help." MR ★★★★★

Revival Antiques, Pasadena, CA

"Five-Star Experience with Cris and Black Oak Homes & Mortgages... From the very first meeting to the final closing day, my experience with Cris and Black Oak Homes & Mortgages has been nothing short of exceptional. Selling a home can be stressful, but with Cris and his team leading the way, the entire process was seamless, professional, and enjoyable. Cris immediately stood out as someone who truly knows the real estate market inside and out. He came prepared with an in-depth market analysis, a clear strategy for pricing and staging the home, and a timeline that he stuck to every step of the way. He patiently answered every question I had - whether it was about timing, paperwork, or negotiations with a calm confidence and deep knowledge. One of the standout aspects of working with Black Oak Homes & Mortgages was the incredible communication. Cris kept me in the loop with regular updates, feedback from showings, and any developments in the process. I never once had to chase for information or wonder what was happening behind the scenes. Everything was transparent and timely, which gave me peace of mind from start to finish. The marketing package they put together was absolutely first-class. From stunning professional photos and video tours to thoughtful staging advice and online listings that stood out from the competition. Cris and his team knew exactly how to showcase my home to its full potential. The attention to detail made a huge difference - and the amount of interest we received was a testament to their work. Cris's negotiation skills were top-notch. He was strategic, calm, and always had my best interest in mind. Thanks to his expertise, we not only secured multiple offers withing just days of listing, but we also sold the house above asking price and ahead of schedule. It was beyond what I had hoped to experience. Beyond the professionalism and results, what really impressed me was the care, attention, and kindness Cris showed throughout the process. He treated me with "white glove service". He truly cared about my experience and worked tirelessly to ensure everything went smoothly. He was honest, dependable, and always went the extra mile. If you're looking for someone to help sell your home with integrity, skill, and personal attention, I cannot recommend Cris and Black Oak Homes & Mortgages highly enough. They delivered a five-star experience from beginning to end, and I wouldn't hesitate to work with them again in the future. They made what could have been a stressful experience feel easy, efficient, and incredibly successful. Thank you, Cris and the entire Black Oak Homes & Mortgages team. You've earned a client (and fan) for life!" LL ★★★★★

"Working with Cris and his team was extraordinary! They make the process so easy so I would highly recommend anyone needing mortgage help to use their company." KC ★★★★★

"Working with Cris and the team at Black Oak Homes & Mortgages has been one of the best decisions we’ve ever made — not once, but twice! We sold and bought with them in Santa Barbara two different times, and both experiences were nothing short of amazing. From day one, Cris was calm, honest, incredibly knowledgeable, and just so easy to talk to. He listened to what we wanted, never pressured us, and gave us super clear advice that made us feel confident every step of the way. When it came to selling, he helped us prep our home in a way that made it shine. The photos, marketing, and showings were all top-notch. Our home sold fast and for a price we were thrilled with. On the buying side, Cris was patient, strategic, and always ahead of the curve. He knows the Santa Barbara market like no one else. He pointed out things we never would’ve thought to look for and always had our best interest in mind. Plus, having the mortgage side in-house made the entire process way easier. It saved time and gave us peace of mind knowing the team was coordinating everything behind the scenes. If you're buying, selling, or refinancing, do yourself a favor and call Cris. You won’t just get an expert — you’ll get a true partner who genuinely cares. Thank you again, Cris, for everything. You’ve helped us build a beautiful life here, twice over. MR ★★★★★

Our New Family: Dan and Melissa Join the Mission

At Black Oak Homes & Mortgages, we operate as a specialized team to ensure every facet of your transaction—from complex land use to staging and finance—is handled by an expert. We are a family of friends committed to delivering the highest level of personal service in the Santa Ynez Valley and Santa Barbara County.

Cris Lapp (DRE #01093529, NMLS #337876) is the founder and authority who established our Dual-Licensed Broker/Lender model over 30 years ago. Cris focuses his expertise where it matters moTo provide comprehensive service beyond the deal, Cris is supported by a dynamic team of specialists:

Introducing Melissa Krantz (Real Estate Sales, Staging & Design): Melissa is your dedicated Real Estate Sales Specialist. She brings a keen eye for staging and interior design to ensure our listings captivate buyers and helps our buying clients visualize a home's full potential. Melissa is your guide for finding and selling the perfect property.

Introducing Dan (Land Use & Development Consultant): Dan steps in as our Land Use and Development Consultant. This specialization is vital for our ranch and vineyard clients. Dan's focus is on navigating complex zoning, permitting, and development potential, providing our clients with a rare level of insight into raw land acquisition and development strategy in the Santa Ynez Valley.

Together, the Black Oak Homes & Mortgages team offers a complete, in-house solution—from finance and land strategy to design and sales—all driven by the singular goal of a seamless, high-value experience for you.

FAQ | Black Oak Homes & Mortgages

Q: Why choose Black Oak Homes & Mortgages in Santa Ynez Valley?
A: We’re dual-licensed in both real estate and mortgage lending, giving clients one trusted guide for buying, selling, or refinancing. Since 1989, we’ve helped locals and out-of-area buyers secure homes, vineyards, and ranches in Solvang, Los Olivos to Los Alamos.

Q: Do you help with both real estate and mortgages?
A: Yes. Unlike most brokers, we handle your property search and financing under one roof. From pre-approval to closing, we simplify the process and negotiate the best terms which saves you money.

Q: Can you assist out-of-area buyers from Los Angeles or San Francisco?
A: Absolutely. Many of our clients are relocating or purchasing second homes. We provide virtual showings, quick loan approvals, and local expertise to make buying in Santa Ynez Valley smooth.

Q: What mortgage services do you offer?
A: We specialize in ez-doc jumbo loans, refinancing, HELOCs, and mortgages for vineyards, ranches, and investment homes. We tailor every loan to your goals.

Q: How do I get started?
A: Call Cris directly for a free consultation. We’ll review your goals, credit, and property needs — whether buying, selling, or refinancing — and create a plan that works for you. 805-538-6044

Charming Santa Ynez Valley & Happy Canyon Neighborhoods

The Santa Ynez Valley offers some of the most desirable real estate in California, blending wine country charm with luxury and lifestyle. From vineyard-view homes and equestrian ranches to quiet retreats in towns like Solvang, Los Olivos, and Buellton, this region has something for every kind of buyer. Whether you're seeking a second home, investment property, or your forever ranch, Santa Ynez delivers space, scenery, and serious long-term value.

We love SY Kitchen for dinner: https://www.sykitchen.com/

We love the Baker's Table for lunch: https://thebakers-table.com/

Discover Los  Olivos Real Estate A Blend of Charm and Luxury

Nestled in the heart of Santa Ynez Valley, Los Olivos offers a unique blend of rural elegance and luxury living, making it a highly sought-after destination for discerning buyers. The median home price was around $1.4 million in May 2025, with more exclusive listings reaching over $3 million, reflecting both the charm and high-end appeal of this small but vibrant community realtor.com+2youtube.com+2youtube.com+2. Known for its picturesque downtown, boutique wineries, and welcoming small-town atmosphere, Los Olivos attracts buyers from Los Angeles, Seattle, and San Diego — earning its reputation as a coveted rural retreat . Whether you're banking on long-term value or seeking a peaceful escape with upscale surroundings, properties here offer an exceptional mix of investment potential and lifestyle allure.

We love Carhartt for a pre-dinner glass of wine https://www.carharttfamilywines.com/

Then dinner at Nella https://nellakitchen.com/

Solvang's European Style

Dolly Parton's former home (pictured on the left) is quintessential Solvang — a one-of-a-kind town where old-world Danish charm meets Central Coast living. Known for its walkable streets, windmills, wine tasting rooms, and festive year-round atmosphere, Solvang offers a unique blend of culture, community, and lifestyle. Whether you're drawn to its storybook cottages, vineyard-view estates, or investment potential in this thriving tourist destination, we understand the nuances of the local market and can help you navigate every opportunity with confidence and care. From first-time buyers to seasoned investors, Solvang continues to attract those seeking beauty, heritage, and a high quality of life.

Instagram Dolly Parton Former Home: https://www.instagram.com/dollys_house_solvang/

Los Alamos is up and coming

Los Alamos — a hidden gem in Santa Barbara County that blends rustic charm with rising real estate appeal. Once a historic stagecoach stop, Los Alamos has transformed into a magnet for wine lovers, artists, and those seeking a slower, more inspired pace of life. With its eclectic mix of vintage storefronts, modern farmhouses, ranch-style properties, and boutique vineyards, the town offers a rare opportunity to invest in a community that’s both grounded in heritage and gaining momentum as a cultural and culinary destination. Whether you’re looking to restore a historic home, build on open land, or purchase a weekend getaway tucked between vineyards and hills, we understand the unique character and potential of Los Alamos real estate. At Black Oak, we help you tap into this creative enclave with clarity, expertise, and local insight.

We love Bob's Well Bread for breakfast or lunch https://www.bobswellbread.com/

DRE: 01093529 & NMLS: 337876, 337660