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Rob Fredrick - Rob the Realtor

Want to Sell Fast and for Top Dollar? Hire the Realtor Who Gets Results!

I’m Rob the Realtor – and I don’t just list homes... I market them like million-dollar brands. I  started my career as an Advertising Executive running high-level ad campaigns for Fortune 500 companies. I know exactly how to get your home maximum exposure where it matters most — online. I create buzz, drive interest, and spark bidding wars that other agents can’t. Most Realtors just upload your listing and hope for the best. I treat your home like a product launch — and that’s why my listings get 10-20x more online views and stronger offers.

If you’re serious about selling, call 661-886-5930 — and let’s get your home sold!

Home: Welcome

My Real Estate Agent Services - Rob the Realtor

  • Selling Your Home - I will sell your home fast and for top dollar! I'm an expert at getting the bidding wars started!

  • Buying a Home - I will get you exactly what you want for the lowest price possible!

  • Social Media and the Internet is what sells homes.  I started my career at one of the largest Advertising Agencies in the world!  I was directly responsible for an $80 million-per-year Facebook, Google, and Instagram Ad budget. It's all about getting as many eyeballs looking at your home as possible.  There is no one better at advertising your home online than me!

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Home: Services
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Home: Testimonials

Drone Videos and Photography
Buyers are on Zillow planning on what house to see next.  The trick is to wow them with drone videos and photography.  The minute they see it they will be begging me for a showing. This is another house that I sold in Santa Clarita Valley where I used the drone to sell the sizzle! The first open house had 55 couples lining up to get inside!

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Expert Photography
My photographer is the best in Southern California.  Great photography is what gets people to look at your home and fall in love. The pool photo is a home I sold in Santa Clarita (Plum Canyon).  We used night time (dusk) shooting and long shutter speeds with a wide angle lens.  This made the back yard look luxurious and elegant.

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Rob's Videos

Home: Contact

Get a Free Consultation from Rob the Realtor

Rob Fredrick

robtherealtor4u@gmail.com

661-886-5930

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Rob the Realtor
Rob Fredrick
661.886.5930
Santa Clarita, CA, USA
DRE 02072876
SDA Properties

Rob the Realtor's Blog!

Understanding Property Taxes in California

By Rob the Realtor

If you’re planning to buy or sell a home in California, understanding how property taxes work is key — especially here in Santa Clarita and across Los Angeles County. Many homeowners are surprised by how property taxes are calculated, what’s included, and how much they can change over time.

Let me break it down so it’s easy to understand — no legal jargon, just the facts you need to know.

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💰 How Are Property Taxes Calculated in California?

Thanks to Proposition 13, property taxes in California are based on the assessed value of your home when you buy it, not necessarily its current market value.

Here’s how it works:

  • Base tax rate: 1% of the assessed value

  • Plus: Local bonds, assessments, and special taxes (including things like Mello-Roos)

So if you buy a home for $800,000, your base property tax will be about $8,000/year, or roughly $667/month.

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📈 What Happens as Your Home Value Increases?

Your property tax can’t go up more than 2% per year, no matter how fast your home appreciates. That’s one of the biggest protections Prop 13 gives California homeowners.

✅ Good for long-term homeowners
⚠️ But when a home is sold, the property is reassessed at the new purchase price — which is why new buyers typically pay more than long-time owners.

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🏘️ What Are Special Assessments (Like Mello-Roos)?

In addition to your base tax, you may see extra charges for:

  • Mello-Roos (common in newer Santa Clarita communities)

  • School bonds

  • Park, lighting, or landscaping districts

These vary by neighborhood and are usually listed under “Special Assessments” on your property tax bill. In some areas, they can add $2,000–$3,000+ per year.

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📑 How Do You Find Out the Property Taxes on a Specific Home?

You can check the Los Angeles County Property Tax Portal or ask your Realtor (that’s me!) to pull the property tax detail for any home you're interested in.

I always check:

  • Base tax estimate

  • Special assessments

  • Mello-Roos (if any)

  • Tax rate percentage for that area

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🔁 Can Property Taxes Be Transferred in California?

Yes — thanks to Proposition 19, certain homeowners over age 55, the severely disabled, or victims of natural disasters can transfer their current tax base to a new home anywhere in California (with some limits).

This can save you thousands in annual taxes if you’re downsizing or relocating.

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📍 Property Tax Tips for Santa Clarita Homeowners

  • Check for Mello-Roos in neighborhoods like West Creek, River Village, and Skyline Ranch

  • Budget for taxes as part of your monthly mortgage payment (many lenders impound taxes)

  • Always check the "Total Effective Tax Rate" when comparing homes

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🧠 Still Have Questions About Property Taxes?

Whether you’re buying your first home or preparing to sell, I’ll walk you through all the costs — taxes included — so there are no surprises. Property taxes can be confusing, but I’ve got you covered.

📞 Rob the Realtor
📍 Helping Santa Clarita Buyers & Sellers Make Smart Moves
📱 661-886-5930
 

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The Truth About Mello-Roos in Santa Clarita

By Rob the Realtor

If you’ve been house hunting in Santa Clarita, chances are you’ve come across the term “Mello-Roos” — and maybe even been a little confused (or concerned) by it. You’re not alone. A lot of buyers hear “Mello-Roos” and immediately wonder: What is it? Why is it so expensive? And is it a dealbreaker?

Let me break it down for you in plain English so you can make an informed decision.

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🤔 What Is Mello-Roos?

Mello-Roos is a special property tax assessment in certain communities — typically newer developments — that helps fund public infrastructure like:

  • Schools

  • Roads

  • Fire stations

  • Parks and recreation

  • Water and sewer systems

Instead of the developer fronting the entire cost for this infrastructure, the cost is passed on to homeowners through a Mello-Roos tax, which is collected annually along with your regular property taxes.

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📍 Where Is Mello-Roos Found in Santa Clarita?

In Santa Clarita, Mello-Roos is most commonly found in newer neighborhoods such as:

  • West Creek & West Hills (Valencia)

  • River Village

  • Five Knolls

  • Skyline Ranch (Canyon Country)

  • Tesoro del Valle

  • Fair Oaks Ranch

If a home is in a master-planned community that was built in the 2000s or later, there's a good chance it has Mello-Roos.

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💸 How Much Is Mello-Roos?

Mello-Roos can vary widely depending on the community — from a few hundred dollars per year to several thousand. On average in Santa Clarita, you're looking at:

  • $1,500–$3,500/year for most homes

  • Often paid monthly as part of your mortgage impound account

Keep in mind: this is in addition to your standard property tax, which in California is around 1.1% of the home’s value.

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🏠 Is Mello-Roos a Dealbreaker?

Not necessarily — and here’s why:

✅ You’re getting newer infrastructure, schools, and amenities
✅ Mello-Roos can expire — many bonds are 20 to 40 years
✅ Homes with Mello-Roos often appreciate well due to desirable communities

But — you do want to know what you’re getting into, and factor it into your monthly budget.

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🔍 How to Check If a Home Has Mello-Roos

When I work with buyers, I always check the Tax Assessor Records or Preliminary Title Report to confirm:

  • Whether the home has Mello-Roos

  • How much it is

  • When it expires (if applicable)

If you’re unsure, just ask me — I’ll give it to you straight.

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🎯 Bottom Line

Mello-Roos isn’t something to be afraid of — it’s just something to understand. In many cases, the added cost is offset by the location, schools, amenities, and quality of life the community offers.

If you’re shopping for a home in Santa Clarita and want to avoid (or limit) Mello-Roos, there are plenty of options too — like many parts of Saugus, Newhall, or older Valencia communities.

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👋 Have Questions About a Specific Property?

Let’s talk before you fall in love with a house that may have unexpected costs. I’ll help you compare homes with and without Mello-Roos, and make sure you know exactly what you’re buying.

📞 Rob the Realtor
📍 Santa Clarita’s Trusted Real Estate Guide
📱 661-886-5930
 

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How Much Do You Need to Buy a House in Santa Clarita?

By Rob the Realtor

Buying a home in Santa Clarita is a dream for many — and with its great schools, beautiful neighborhoods, and strong sense of community, it’s easy to see why. But one of the biggest questions I get from buyers is:
“How much do I need to actually buy a home here?”

Whether you're a first-time buyer or relocating from another area, here’s a simple breakdown of what to expect when it comes to costs, down payments, and monthly expenses when buying a home in Santa Clarita.

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💵 1. The Average Home Price in Santa Clarita

As of this year, the median home price in Santa Clarita hovers between $750,000 and $850,000, depending on the neighborhood, home size, and condition.

  • Starter homes & townhomes: $500,000–$700,000

  • Single-family homes in Saugus, Canyon Country: $700,000–$900,000

  • Valencia, Stevenson Ranch, and luxury homes: $900,000+

👉 Prices vary by neighborhood, so working with a local expert (like me!) helps you understand what’s realistic for your budget.

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🏦 2. Down Payment – How Much Do You Really Need?

You don’t need 20% down to buy a house — that’s a common myth.

Here are a few typical options:

  • FHA Loan: 3.5% down
    → On a $700,000 home = $24,500

  • Conventional Loan: 5% to 10% down
    → 5% of $700,000 = $35,000

  • VA Loan: 0% down (for eligible veterans)

Some buyers even qualify for first-time buyer programs with grants or down payment assistance.

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🧾 3. Closing Costs (Don’t Forget These!)

In addition to your down payment, you’ll need to cover closing costs, which typically range from 2% to 3% of the purchase price.

Example:

  • $700,000 home × 2.5% = $17,500 in closing costs

This covers things like:

  • Escrow & title fees

  • Appraisal & inspection

  • Loan origination fees

  • Property taxes & insurance (prorated)

📆 4. Monthly Payment – What Will It Cost You Each Month?

Let’s say you buy a $700,000 home with 5% down and a 7% interest rate. Here’s a rough breakdown:

CostEstimated Monthly

Mortgage + Interest$4,400–$4,600

Property Taxes$700–$800

Home Insurance$100–$150

HOA (if any)$0–$300

Total Monthly: Around $5,200–$5,800
(This will vary based on your loan type, down payment, interest rate, and whether there’s Mello-Roos or HOA fees.)

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🧠 5. Bonus Tip: Get Pre-Approved First

Before falling in love with a home, get pre-approved with a lender. It’s free, takes about 15 minutes, and tells you:

  • How much you can afford

  • What your monthly payment will be

  • What loan options are available

I work with some great local lenders who can walk you through it — just ask!

🎯 Ready to See What You Can Afford?

If you’re curious about buying a home in Santa Clarita and want to explore your options, let’s chat. Whether you're ready now or just doing some research, I’m here to help — no pressure, just good advice.

📞 Rob the Realtor
📍 Santa Clarita Valley Home Buying Expert
📱 661-886-5930
 

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Top 5 Renovations That Help Homes Sell Faster in Southern California

By Rob the Realtor

If you’re thinking about selling your home in Southern California, you might be wondering what renovations are actually worth the time and money. As a local Realtor, I’ve walked through hundreds of homes — and I can tell you with confidence: some updates can help your home sell faster and for more money, while others barely make a difference.

Here are the Top 5 renovations that consistently help homes sell faster in SoCal’s competitive real estate market:

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🔨 1. Kitchen Refresh (Not a Full Remodel)

You don’t need to gut your entire kitchen — in fact, you shouldn't. A light kitchen refresh can go a long way.

What Works:

  • Painting cabinets (white or light gray is timeless)

  • Updating cabinet hardware

  • Installing a new backsplash

  • Replacing old countertops with quartz or granite

  • Adding modern light fixtures

Why It Matters: The kitchen is the heart of the home. Buyers often make emotional decisions based on how it feels.

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🚿 2. Modernize the Bathrooms

Bathrooms don’t have to be high-end, but they do need to feel clean, bright, and updated.

Smart Updates:

  • New mirrors, faucets, and light fixtures

  • Painted or refinished vanities

  • Frameless shower doors

  • Neutral tile or vinyl plank flooring

Pro Tip: Focus especially on the primary bathroom — it’s a major selling point.

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🎨 3. Fresh Interior Paint in Neutral Tones

A fresh coat of paint is one of the cheapest and highest-return investments you can make. Buyers want a home that feels move-in ready.

Best Colors for SoCal Homes:

  • Swiss Coffee by Behr

  • Agreeable Gray by Sherwin-Williams

  • Classic White by Benjamin Moore

Avoid: Bright accent walls or dark colors — they make rooms feel smaller.

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🏡 4. Curb Appeal That Pops

First impressions matter, and buyers often decide how they feel about a home before they walk in the front door.

Curb Appeal Boosters:

  • Fresh mulch and plants

  • Painted front door

  • Power-washed driveway

  • Updated house numbers and mailbox

  • New exterior lighting

In Southern California, where the weather is great year-round, the exterior is almost as important as the interior.

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🌞 5. Energy-Efficient Windows or HVAC Tune-Up

Buyers in SoCal care about energy efficiency — especially with our hot summers. Older homes with drafty windows or outdated A/C units can turn buyers off.

Quick Wins:

  • Dual-pane windows (if budget allows)

  • A serviced HVAC system with a clean bill of health

  • Smart thermostat (like Nest or Ecobee)

These upgrades not only help sell your home faster but can also make your property more attractive during appraisal.

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🏠 Thinking About Selling Your Home?

If you’re planning to list your home and want to know which updates are worth it — and which ones to skip — I’d be happy to take a look and give you a custom game plan. No pressure, just honest advice.

📞 Rob the Realtor
📍 Helping Santa Clarita homeowners sell faster and smarter
📱 661-886-5930
 

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The Best Neighborhoods in Santa Clarita for Homebuyers!

By Rob the Realtor

If you’re thinking about buying a home in Santa Clarita, you’re already on the right track. As a local Realtor who lives and works in this community, I can tell you firsthand — Santa Clarita offers some of the best neighborhoods in all of Southern California. Whether you’re looking for a great school district, a quiet suburb, or access to trails and shopping, this valley has something for everyone.

Here are some of the top neighborhoods I recommend for homebuyers right now:

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🏡 1. Valencia – Master-Planned and Family-Friendly

Valencia is one of the most popular neighborhoods in Santa Clarita, and for good reason. Known for its master-planned communities, top-rated schools, and scenic paseos (walking and biking trails that run through the city), Valencia is a go-to choice for families and professionals alike.

What Buyers Love:

  • Award-winning schools

  • Beautiful parks and paseos

  • Access to shopping, restaurants, and the Westfield Valencia Town Center

  • Easy freeway access for commuters

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🌄 2. Saugus – Great Value and Local Vibes

Saugus offers a more relaxed, suburban vibe with a lot of bang for your buck. It’s a great area for first-time homebuyers or anyone looking for a solid neighborhood with parks, good schools, and a strong sense of community.

What Buyers Love:

  • Affordable homes compared to neighboring Valencia

  • Central location in the SCV

  • Local events like the Saugus Swap Meet and Central Park concerts

  • Mix of newer and older homes

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🏞️ 3. Canyon Country – Scenic Views and Growth Potential

Canyon Country has a mix of everything — newer developments, older homes with big lots, and great mountain views. This area is constantly growing, making it ideal for buyers looking for long-term value.

What Buyers Love:

  • Newer developments like Skyline Ranch

  • Gorgeous views of the surrounding hills

  • More square footage for your dollar

  • Quick access to the 14 Freeway

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🏘️ 4. Newhall – Historic Charm with a Downtown Feel

Newhall is the oldest community in Santa Clarita and it’s undergone a big transformation over the years. With a revitalized downtown district, trendy restaurants, and a strong arts presence, Newhall is perfect for buyers who want charm, walkability, and culture.

What Buyers Love:

  • Old Town Newhall shops, dining, and nightlife

  • Charming historic homes and craftsman bungalows

  • Theatres, farmers markets, and festivals

  • Easy access to the 5 and 14 freeways

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🌳 5. Stevenson Ranch – Executive Living Just Outside the City

Although technically just outside Santa Clarita city limits, Stevenson Ranch is a top pick for homebuyers looking for luxury homes, top schools, and peaceful surroundings. It feels tucked away but is still close to everything.

What Buyers Love:

  • Gorgeous hillside homes with views

  • High-performing schools

  • Quiet, upscale feel

  • Quick commute to Los Angeles via the 5 Freeway

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🏠 Ready to Find Your Perfect Neighborhood?

There’s no one-size-fits-all when it comes to buying a home — and that’s what makes Santa Clarita so special. If you’re thinking about making a move and want a local expert to help you figure out which neighborhood fits your lifestyle and budget best, I’d love to help.

Give me a call, shoot me a text — let’s talk Santa Clarita real estate!

📞 Rob the Realtor
📍 Santa Clarita Valley Expert
📱 661-886-5930

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Rob the Realtor – Santa Clarita's Trusted Real Estate Expert

Looking for a Realtor? Want to sell your home?  Looking to buy or sell a home in Santa Clarita, Valencia, Saugus, Newhall, or Canyon Country? Rob the Realtor is here to help! With years of experience, deep local knowledge, and a passion for helping clients, I make the real estate process smooth, stress-free, and successful. Whether you're searching for homes for sale in Santa Clarita or planning to list your property, I deliver results you can count on. From first-time homebuyers to seasoned investors, I work hard to make your real estate goals a reality. Contact Rob the Realtor today for expert real estate services in Santa Clarita Valley and beyond!

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Low Commission Special  - Terms and Conditions

I will beat any traditional Realtor.  Offer does not include "For Sale By Owner" brokerages. Discount Commission Promotion has limitations, restrictions and exclusions (Houses under $650k are excluded – call for details). Promotion is valid for limited time only and is subject to change without notice.  I reserve the right to edit, remove, end, add or change promotion at any time.  I do not warrant or make any representations regarding the expected results of the promotion.  Conditions and restrictions apply, call for details.

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Important Phone Numbers Santa Clarita Valley

Valencia, Canyon Country, Newhall, Stevenson Ranch, Saugus

 

Santa Clarita Valley Emergency

Life Threatening Emergency:                                     911 

CA Poison Control                                                            (800) 876-4766 

Henry Mayo Hospital Valencia                                    (661) 200-2000

 

Santa Clarita Valley Crime

Santa Clarita Valley Graffiti Hotline                          (661) 252-5326

Child Abuse Hotline                                                         (800) 540-4000

Santa Clarita Valley Domestic Violence Hotline (661) 259-4357

Santa Clarita Valley Rape Hotline (24-Hour)         (661) 253-0258

 

Santa Clarita Valley Government

City of Santa Clarita                                                         (661) 259-CITY [2489]

Santa Clarita Valley Mayor/City Council                  (661) 255-4395
Santa Clarita Valley Sheriff                                           (661) 255-1121 

Santa Clarita Valley DMV                                                (800) 777-0133

Santa Clarita Valley Community Numbers
Santa Clarita Library Main Number                          (661) 259-0750

SCV Animal Care and Control                                      (661) 257-3101

Santa Clarita Valley Arts & Events Office               (661) 250-3787

SCV Recreation & Community Services                 (661) 255-4965

Santa Clarita Valley Senior Center                             (661) 259-9444

 

Santa Clarita Valley Sports

Santa Clarita Valley Sports Complex                        (661) 250-3758

SCV Sports Complex (Aquatic Center)                     (661) 250-3740

SCV Youth Sports                                                              (661) 250-3756

 

Santa Clarita Valley Utilities

Southern California Edison                                          (800) 611-1911 

The Gas Company                                                             (800) 427-2200 

Santa Clarita Water Division                                        (661) 259-2737

 

Santa Clarita Valley Help and Assistance

Santa Clarita Valley Lost Pet                                       (661) 257-3191

Santa Clarita Valley Food Pantry                               (661) 255-9078

Substance Abuse                                                             (800) 367-8336

Suicide Prevention (24-Hour)                                     (800) 784-2433

Caltrans Road Conditions                                            (800) 427-7623

Santa Clarita Valley Real Estate Agent                   (661) 886-5930

Santa Clarita Valley Realtor                                         (661) 886-5930

 

Whether you live in Valencia, Canyon Country, Newhall, Stevenson Ranch, Saugus, these numbers will help you

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Valencia, Santa Clarita, California

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Valencia,_Santa_Clarita,_California 

Elevation 1,017 ft 

Population (2010) Total 61,327

ZIP Codes 91354, 91355, 91385

Area code 661

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Valencia is a neighborhood in Santa Clarita located within Los Angeles County, California. It is the most populous of the four unincorporated communities (along with Saugus, Newhall, and Canyon Country) that merged to create the city of Santa Clarita in 1987. It is situated centrally in the now-City of Santa Clarita, running from Newhall to the south (below Lyons Avenue) to north of Copper Hill Drive

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Santa Clarita Valley

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Santa_Clarita,_California

https://www.santa-clarita.com/

Santa Clarita is the third-largest city in Los Angeles County, and the 23rd largest in the state of California. As of the 2010 census it had a population of 176,320, and in 2018 the population was estimated to be 210,089

School districts

Colleges and universities

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Canyon Country, Santa Clarita​

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Canyon_Country,_Santa_Clarita,_California

In 1987, Canyon Country was one of four communities, with Valencia, Newhall, and Saugus, that merged to create the city of Santa Clarita, California. Canyon Country has a population of 59,530 people.

Canyon Country is home to the Placerita Canyon Nature Center, which is also the site of California's original gold discovery at the historic "Oak of the Golden Dream" in 1842.

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Newhall, Santa Clarita​

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Newhall,_Santa_Clarita,_California

Newhall is the southernmost and oldest community of Santa Clarita, California. Prior to the 1987 consolidation of Canyon Country, Saugus, Newhall, and other neighboring communities into the city of Santa Clarita, it was an unincorporated area. It was the first permanent town in the Santa Clarita Valley. Named after businessman Henry Mayo Newhall, Newhall is home to the William S. Hart County Park, featuring tours of the famous silent movie maker's mansion. 

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Saugus, Santa Clarita

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Saugus,_Santa_Clarita,_California

Saugus is a neighborhood in Santa Clarita, California. Saugus was one of four communities (along with Valencia, Newhall, and Canyon Country) that merged in 1987, to create the city of Santa Clarita. Saugus is named after the town of Saugus, Massachusetts, the hometown of Henry Newhall, upon whose land the town was originally built. The Saugus Cafe, on San Fernando Road, was established in 1887[2] and is among the oldest restaurants in Los Angeles County.

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Stevenson Ranch, Santa Clarita

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Stevenson_Ranch,_California

The community is located in the Santa Clarita Valley. It is home to the award winning California Distinguished and National Blue Ribbon Schools: Stevenson Ranch Elementary and Pico Canyon Elementary (part of the Newhall School District), and Rancho Pico Junior High, and West Ranch High School (part of the William S. Hart High School District), The Valencia Marketplace and Stevenson Ranch Shopping Center are popular shopping areas in the community. Six Flags Magic Mountain, an amusement park, is located about three miles north of the community.

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