Locals in Uproar as Meghan and Harry Consider Buying Home in Santa Barbara Suburb

The peaceful suburb of Hope Ranch in Santa Barbara, California is currently in a state of turmoil and panic as news circulates that Prince Harry and Meghan Markle are considering purchasing a home there.

According to a recent report from the New York Post, residents of the exclusive enclave are praying fervently that the couple will choose to stay in nearby Montecito instead.

Hope Ranch, known for its seclusion and tranquility, is home to long-time residents who value the neighborhood's privacy.

However, the prospect of Meghan and Harry moving in has sparked concern among locals.

A Hope Ranch Realtor revealed that their office has received an overwhelming 120 calls from worried residents.

These calls express fears that the couple, along with their security team, will disrupt the peace that defines the neighborhood.

Hope Ranch, with only three public roads, cherishes its seclusion as the ultimate amenity.

“People aren't happy,” said one anonymous Realtor.

“They want them to stay in Montecito and not draw attention to Hope Ranch.”

Another Realtor and Santa Barbara native echoed this sentiment, confirming that neighbors are anxious about the potential changes Meghan and Harry's arrival may bring.

There have been claims of spotting Markle on the town's private beach, further fueling concerns that the area may become an extension of Montecito.

Worries have also arisen from accounts of the couple's actions in Montecito.

One shop employee alleged to the New York Post that their security team had closed streets and hiking trails.

Brian Nayor, a luxury real estate specialist, emphasized that sellers in Hope Ranch have the power to choose who they sell their properties to.

He warned that if Meghan were granted access to these properties against the wishes of the landlords, chaos could ensue, potentially deterring future buyers.

While reports earlier suggested that Harry and Meghan were secretly searching for homes in Malibu, the second Realtor insists that the couple has been considering a move to Hope Ranch for quite some time.

“People are up in arms about it,” she said.

“Introducing people like Harry and Meghan would completely change the area, something that the locals strongly oppose.

I believe the homeowners association would fight against it.”

Since tying the knot in 2018, Harry and Meghan 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.

According to a source, they love the beachside lifestyle, which initially drew them to Montecito.

While nothing has been decided yet, moving to Malibu or Hope Ranch is definitely on their radar.

The couple fell in love with the area after staying in a friend's rental home during the past two summer seasons and are now casually house hunting in the region.

As the speculation continues, residents of Hope Ranch anxiously await news of Meghan and Harry's final decision.

The potential impact their presence may have on the tranquil neighborhood remains a topic of heated discussion among locals.