Why Us?

Lower Your Costs: Combined Real Estate & Mortgage Expertise with AI.

Over 9,000 Closed Deals & 8,000+ Happy Clients. Your Trusted Real Estate Partner for 33 Years. #HomeBuyingMadeEasy #AIinRealEstate #HappyClients #HomeSellingMadeEasy

"Our commitment to you is lifelong, built on privacy, and a dedication to securing the best deal possible." Cris Lapp (805) 538-6044
Cris_Lapp

About Cris Lapp

Cris Lapp - Black Oak Homes & Loans: Your One-Stop Santa Ynez Valley Real Estate Solution (Established 1989)

Streamline Your Real Estate Journey: Expert Brokerage & Mortgage Services

Black Oak Homes & Loans, founded by renowned broker Cris Lapp in 1989, simplifies your Santa Ynez Valley real estate experience. We offer a unique, integrated approach combining expert real estate brokerage and mortgage services under one roof. This allows you to save time, money, and hassle by streamlining the entire process.

Beyond Transactions: Building Trust & Achieving Your Goals

Cris Lapp, known for his tenacity and commitment to client privacy, goes beyond simply closing deals. Black Oak Homes & Loans prioritizes building trust and achieving your real estate goals.

Our Comprehensive Services:

  • Home Buying & Selling: Navigate the Santa Ynez Valley market with confidence.
  • Mortgages & Refinancing: Secure the best financing options for your needs.
  • Construction & Renovation Financing: Turn your dream home into reality.
  • Second Mortgages & ADU Financing: Unlock the potential of your property.
  • Land & Ranch Financing: Invest in Santa Ynez Valley's unique landscape.

Experience the Black Oak Difference:

  • Privacy-focused approach: Your financial information is safe with us.
  • Speed & Efficiency: Get things done quickly and seamlessly.
  • Cost-effective solutions: Save money with our integrated services.

Have Questions? We're Here to Help!

Black Oak Homes & Loans is your trusted partner for all things real estate in the Santa Ynez Valley. Contact us today for a free consultation and discover how we can simplify your real estate journey. #HomeBuyingMadeEasy #AIinRealEstate #HappyClients

https://mortgagematchup.com/Profile/CristopherLapp48263?addressOrder=0&page=1

Client Testimonials

Client Testimonials

"Cris Lapp is the epitome of professionalism and efficiency in real estate brokerage. A rare combination of intellect and ethics distinguishes him as the best I've ever worked with. There aren't enough stars to adequately rate this exceptional team. Thank you!" 

~Dr. W. (Santa Barbara, CA)

"I've had the pleasure of working with Cris' team on numerous large mortgages over the years. They are industry-savvy, detail-oriented, straightforward, and get the job done. I highly recommend the Black Oak for excellent and professional service – guaranteed satisfaction!"

~LL, Los Angeles

"We have used Cris Lapp several times and love the entire team. Their skill and knowledge base are remarkable! We'd recommend them!"

~D.S. in Los Olivos

"I had a quick job move and Cris Lapp and Black Oak did everything including the listing, selling & financing on my new home. They are the best and nicest real estate and mortgage lenders in town!"

~L.K. in Santa Barbara

"Our room addition turned into a major construction project. Cris saved the day with a tricky refinance loan."

~A.C. in Santa Ynez

"If you are looking for some awesome, knowledgeable people to work with, these are the guys I highly recommend. Their friendliness and result-driven approach is what I love about them. Thank you again.

Mary S. - Solvang, CA

Designation

Our Goal For You

"At Black Oak Homes & Loans, we transform your real estate aspirations into realities using AI, offering unmatched tenacity, privacy, and enduring client satisfaction."

Cris Lapp

Santa Barbara family with happy golden Labrador dog and small boy.

Dolly Parton, Solvang, Vogue Magazine & Us

Black Oak Homes & Loans office is in Dolly Parton's former Solvang home

Dolly Parton's
Former House (Our Office)

Dolly Parton, the legendary country music icon and philanthropist, owned a home in Solvang, CA, for many years, where she found a peaceful retreat from her busy life in the spotlight. Known for her incredible musical career, including hits like "Jolene" and "9 to 5," as well as her larger-than-life personality, Dolly was drawn to Solvang’s serene atmosphere and rich cultural heritage. Nestled in the Santa Ynez Valley, Solvang is famous for its Danish-style architecture, boutique shops, and world-class wineries, offering Dolly a quiet escape from the fast pace of Hollywood and Nashville.

Solvang’s charm goes beyond its Danish roots; it is also a close-knit community where privacy and relaxation are treasured, two aspects that likely appealed to Dolly, who has always been known for valuing her personal space and family life. The town’s friendly residents and local culture gave her the perfect place to unwind, away from the pressures of fame. The area also offered plenty of inspiration for Dolly’s creative work, with its stunning landscapes, scenic vineyards, and tranquil setting—a sharp contrast to the big city environments she often worked in.

Dolly’s love for nature and animals is well-documented, and Solvang provided the perfect environment for her to enjoy the outdoors. From horseback riding through the valley to enjoying the local vineyards and festivals, Dolly could immerse herself in the natural beauty of the region. Additionally, Solvang's location, just a short drive from Santa Barbara and Los Angeles, gave her easy access to both the peaceful countryside and the conveniences of city life whenever needed.

Throughout her career, Dolly has been involved in many charitable efforts, and it’s no surprise that Solvang, with its sense of community and philanthropy, resonated with her values. Whether supporting literacy programs through her Imagination Library or advocating for those in need, Dolly’s time in Solvang likely contributed to her ongoing commitment to giving back.

Her presence in Solvang also added to the town's allure, as fans of the music legend often sought to catch a glimpse of the star enjoying her quiet life in this Danish-inspired village. For Dolly Parton, Solvang wasn’t just a place to live—it was a sanctuary where she could recharge, connect with nature, and enjoy the simplicity and beauty of small-town California.

#DollyParton #SolvangCA #CountryMusicLegend #SantaYnezValley #SolvangLife #DanishHeritage #PeacefulRetreat #CelebrityHomes #CaliforniaVineyards #NatureLovers #SmallTownCharm #SolvangHistory #MusicIcon #QuietGetaway #SantaBarbaraCounty

🏡🎶🌄💖🍇🌿🎤

ADUs are an excellent solution for seniors in the family because they provide independent living while keeping loved ones close by. With an ADU, seniors can maintain privacy and autonomy in a comfortable space designed to meet their needs, while family members are just steps away for support. These units are typically more affordable and manageable than larger homes, making them ideal for aging in place. Additionally, ADUs offer a safe, familiar environment without the need for seniors to move to expensive retirement communities, promoting both peace of mind and family connection.

Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) & Junior Accessory Dwelling Units (JADUs) and You!

Why You Should Build an Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU)

Building an Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) is one of the smartest investments you can make as a homeowner in California. Whether you’re looking to increase property value, generate rental income, or accommodate family members, ADUs offer several key benefits that make them an attractive option:

1. **Increased Property Value**
An ADU can significantly increase the overall value of your property. In California’s competitive real estate market, homes with ADUs often sell for higher prices, providing a strong return on investment. Prospective buyers are drawn to the flexibility that an ADU offers, whether it’s for rental income, a home office, or guest space.

2. **Generate Passive Income**
Renting out an ADU is an excellent way to generate passive income. With California’s high demand for housing, especially in urban areas like San Diego, renting an ADU can provide a steady income stream, offsetting mortgage payments or other expenses.

3. **Flexible Living Space**
ADUs are perfect for multi-generational living. You can create a comfortable and independent space for elderly parents, adult children, or other family members while maintaining privacy. The flexibility of an ADU allows you to adapt to changing family needs.

5. **Tax Benefits**
In some cases, you may be able to take advantage of tax deductions on ADU-related expenses, including mortgage interest, property taxes, and depreciation.

7. **California ADU-Friendly Laws**
California has made it easier than ever to build ADUs by simplifying zoning laws and reducing fees. Whether you’re building a small studio or a larger unit, the state encourages ADU construction to address the housing crisis.

By building an ADU, you’ll not only increase your property’s functionality and value but also open up opportunities for passive income, flexible living arrangements, and more. With the growing popularity of ADUs in California, it’s an investment that benefits both homeowners and communities.

#ADU, #AccessoryDwellingUnit, #CaliforniaHousing, #RealEstateInvestment, #PassiveIncome, #RentalProperty, #MultiGenerationalLiving, #SantaBarbaraRealEstate, #HomeImprovement, #HomeValue, #TinyHomeLiving, #AffordableHousing, #GreenBuilding, #HomeDesign, #BackyardHomes, #PropertyValue, #SustainableLiving, #EnergyEfficientHomes, #RealEstateInCalifornia, and #HousingSolutions. You can also include engaging emojis such as 🏡, 💰, 📈, 🛠️, 🔑, 💡, 🌱, 🌍, 🔨, 👨‍👩‍👦, 🏗️, ✨, 💵, and 🏘️ 

A woman standing on the sidewalk in front of a house.

VOGUE & BELLA HADID
PHOTO SHOOT

Bella Hadid's **Vogue** photo shoot in Solvang, CA, is an interesting blend of high fashion and the town's quaint, Danish-inspired charm. The shoot showcased Bella in stunning designer outfits set against the picturesque backdrop of Solvang's unique architecture. The juxtaposition of her glamorous, couture ensembles with the old-world charm of Solvang created a visually striking contrast that captured the attention of both fashion enthusiasts and fans of the town. Solvang’s peaceful, European atmosphere brought a refreshing twist to the shoot, providing a serene setting for the bold and edgy fashion looks that Bella is known for. This particular shoot stood out as it merged Solvang’s warm, small-town ambiance with Bella Hadid’s chic, modern appeal, offering a glimpse into how fashion can interact with unexpected locations. It was a celebration of both Solvang’s charm and Bella Hadid’s ability to bring any setting to life through her fashion presence.

#BellaHadid #VogueShoot #SolvangCA #HighFashion #DanishCharm #CaliforniaStyle #FashionInspiration #IconicLook #Supermodel #GlamourInSolvang #FashionMeetsNature #QuaintTownGlamour #VineyardVibes #CoutureInTheCountryside

📸🌟🏡🍇💃✨🌿

WHERE TO BUY & WHY IN SANTA YNEZ VALLEY & SANTA BARBARA

The decision of where to buy real estate in the Santa Ynez Valley and Santa Barbara is influenced by a combination of factors: including the scenic beauty options, privacy, acreage, horses, and proximity to major cities. Here are six (6) suggestions...

BALLARD

The Old School House & Bob's Well Bread

Ballard's origins date back to the 1880s as a Wells Fargo stagecoach stop, and is one of the most serene areas in the Santa Ynez Valley. #ballard #horseproperty #bobswellbread

From Stagecoach Stop to Wine & Art Haven ✨

Los Olivos became a bustling trading post and ranching hub in the 19th Century. Today, nestled in the heart of the Santa Ynez Valley, this charming town is the premier wine destination and vibrant art scene. #losolivos #winelovers #matteistavernauberge

Rising Star: Los Alamos Beckons Investors and Foodies Alike

Los Alamos is captivating the imaginations of both real estate investors and culinary enthusiasts and offers a unique blend of historic charm, emerging opportunity, and award-winning cuisine. #LosAlamosFoodie #SantaYnezValleyWines #CentralCoastEats

From historic cottages to sprawling estates, Santa Ynez has it all.

With home options from historic cottages to sprawling horse estates, the growing market and limited inventory attract both residents seeking a slower pace and investors eyeing potential. #santaynez #sykitchen #chumashindianmuseum #chumashcasinoresort

/luxury-homes-santa-ynez-valley

Solvang means "Sunny Fields" in Danish.

Windmills spin, bakeries fill the air with sweet aromas, and lively "Danish Days" festivals transport you to Scandinavia in the sunshine. Solvang is best for its closeness to groceries stories, and Leonardo's Pizza (which is amazing).

https://newfrontiersmarket.com/

https://www.leonardoscucina.com/

#solvang #danishdays #californiawinecountry

Santa Barbara, "Where the Stars Meet the Sea"©

From Oprah to Harry and Meghan, Santa Barbara's coastline beckons with sun-kissed shores, vibrant cultural offerings, renowned wineries, and a buzzing music scene. The Mediterranean-like climate enriches lifestyles for those seeking a vibrant coastal escape brimming with opportunities to connect, explore, and indulge. #santabarbara #montecito #hoperanch

Vandenberg Space Force Base, situated on California's central coast (near Lompoc) is a key launch site driving advancements in space exploration and SpaceX satellite deployment. #spacex #rocket, #space, #elonmusk, #nasa, #spacex, #rocketlaunch, #deltaiv, #falcon9, #launch 

Santa Ynez Valley is famed for its exceptional wines, notably distinguished Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Syrah. We love:

McKinney Family Vineyards

Black Jack Ranch Wines (famous in the movie Sideways)

Liquid Farm

Carhartt Family Wines

Try:

SY Kitchen, Santa Ynez (dinner)

Nella's, Los Olivos (lunch or dinner)

The Victory's Patio Menu (early dinner)

Bakers Table (lunch)