The peaceful suburb of Hope Ranch in Santa Barbara, California is currently in a state of turmoil and panic as rumors circulate that Prince Harry and Meghan Markle are considering purchasing a home there.
This news has sparked concern among the residents, who are praying that the couple will continue to reside in nearby Montecito.
Hope Ranch, known for its seclusion and tranquility, is not eager to welcome the famous couple.
When news broke that Meghan and Harry might be interested in the exclusive suburb, long-time residents flooded local real estate offices with over 120 anxious calls.
These concerned individuals worry that the couple and their security team will disrupt the peace that the neighborhood cherishes.
With only three public roads, seclusion is considered the ultimate amenity in Hope Ranch.
“People aren’t happy,” expressed one Realtor, who wished to remain anonymous.
“They want them to stay in Montecito and not draw attention to Hope Ranch.”
Another Realtor and Santa Barbara native confirmed this sentiment, stating that the neighbors fear the area will become an extension of Montecito if Meghan and Harry decide to settle there.
The concerns stem from reports of the couple’s security team closing streets and hiking trails in Montecito, as shared by a shop employee to the New York Post.
The potential impact on property values is also a cause for worry among locals.
Brian Nayor, a luxury real estate specialist, warned that if Meghan were granted access to properties in Hope Ranch against the wishes of the landlords, it could deter future buyers from investing in the area.
“If they come here, no one will want to buy houses here in the future,” Nayor emphasized.
Although there were previous reports of the couple secretly house hunting in Malibu, the second Realtor insists that Meghan and Harry have been considering a move to Hope Ranch for quite some time.
However, the idea of introducing high-profile individuals like Harry and Meghan to the neighborhood doesn’t sit well with the locals.
“People are up in arms about it,” the Realtor stated.
“Bringing them here would completely change the area, and that’s definitely not something the locals want.
I believe the homeowners association would fight against it.”
Prince Harry and Meghan Markle tied the knot in 2018 and stepped down from their royal duties in 2020, opting for a life in Montecito.
However, they have reportedly found the area too remote and are now exploring other options.
A source close to the couple revealed that while they love the lifestyle in Montecito, it feels somewhat isolated from the city.
The source also mentioned that Meghan enjoys being close to the beach, which initially prompted their move to Montecito.
Although no final decisions have been made, the couple is said to be casually house hunting in Malibu and Hope Ranch.
The possibility of Meghan and Harry settling in Hope Ranch has ignited a fierce debate among the locals.
As the community anxiously awaits the couple’s decision, tensions continue to rise.
Will the tranquility of Hope Ranch remain intact, or will it become a new chapter in the royal couple’s story?
Only time will tell.