<?xml version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" ?>
<rss version="2.0" xmlns:atom="http://www.w3.org/2005/Atom">
    <channel>
        <atom:link href="http://www.lagunabeachrealestate.com/blog/rss/" rel="self" type="application/rss+xml" />
        <title>Laguna Beach Real Estate Blog</title>
        <link>http://www.lagunabeachrealestate.com/blog/</link>
        <description>Laguna Beach Real Estate Blog for updates to the Laguna Beach Real Estate market.  Timely information to help you buy a home in Laguna Beach, California</description>
        <item>
            <guid>http://www.lagunabeachrealestate.com/blog/emerald-bay-new-construction-homes.html</guid>
            <link>http://www.lagunabeachrealestate.com/blog/emerald-bay-new-construction-homes.html</link>
            <author>scott@lagunabeachrealestate.com (Sam Smith)</author>
            <title>Emerald Bay New Construction Homes </title>
            <description> <![CDATA[ 
The Emerald Bay community in Laguna Beach is going through a construction boom as real estate prices are starting to move upwards and the demand for these homes is growing.  There are several new construction homes currently being built in various parts of the community as we have seen record breaking prices for homes sold in this community in the last 12 months.



 


This week a new listing just came on the market in the Emerald Bay community for a record $38 million.  The highest priced home in Emerald Bay.  The home is located 156 Emerald Bay and just down the street from a home at 168 Emerald Bay that sold for $16 million last summer.  What makes this home so unique and that much more expensive is the direct steps down to the beach with it's own private cabana.  This marks the 3rd home on the market in Emerald Bay that is priced over $19 million dollars. 



 


In the last 12 months there have been a record 25 sales in the Emerald Bay community ranging from $2 to $16 million.  Many of these homes sold in just a matter of days of being on the market and some with multiple bids and offers.  At the beginning of 2012 the Laguna Beach Real Estate market started heating up as many realized that these low of prices would not last long in this prime area of Southern California.  Real Estate prices rose roughly 7% last year and still continue to increase in 2013.  Many of the older ocean front homes are being bought and torn down to build brand new custom homes.



 


Currently, there are still some fixer upper ocean front properties on the market in Emerald Bay that would be excellent candidates for a new build that offer great ocean front views.  As of today there are a total of 14 homes on the market in Emerald Bay with 4 additional properties in-escrow and accepting back-up offers.  Below are the current available homes for sale in this community.  If you are thinking about buying this year we encourage you to act sooner than later as real estate prices and demand continues to go up.



 ]]> </description>
            <pubDate>Thu, 16 May 2013 19:02:00 -0500</pubDate>
                    </item>
        <item>
            <guid>http://www.lagunabeachrealestate.com/blog/laguna-beach-homes-near-crystal-cove.html</guid>
            <link>http://www.lagunabeachrealestate.com/blog/laguna-beach-homes-near-crystal-cove.html</link>
            <author>scott@lagunabeachrealestate.com (Sam Smith)</author>
            <title>Laguna Beach Homes Near Crystal Cove</title>
            <description> <![CDATA[ 
Laguna Beach has many homes that are located near the Crystal Cove nature preserve that is protected land between the homes in Laguna Beach and the Crystal Cove housing development in Newport Beach, California.  These homes are located in the upper section of the Irvine Cove gated community and commonly known as "Upper Irvine Cove."  One of the nice benefits for these homes that boarder the preserve area is the instant privacy these homes get to enjoy.  Homes can never be built on the preseve so there is no worries about another party building a home that would block your view.



One of the benefits of living in this community is the direct access to the beach.  Homes located on the upper side of Irvine Cove can conveniently go under Coast Highway through a tunnel that ends up at the beach.  The beach at Irvine Cove is a private beach with a community clubhouse and children's play area.   You will not find any outside tourist walking paths down to the beach so only residents of this community can enjoy this beach.  If you are considering buying in the Crystal Cove community in Newport Beach you should consider the Irvine Cove community as an option as well.  Below are the current homes for sale in the Upper Irvine Cove area.



 ]]> </description>
            <pubDate>Fri, 10 May 2013 19:35:00 -0500</pubDate>
                    </item>
        <item>
            <guid>http://www.lagunabeachrealestate.com/blog/laguna-beach-ultra-contemporary-ocean-view-homes.html</guid>
            <link>http://www.lagunabeachrealestate.com/blog/laguna-beach-ultra-contemporary-ocean-view-homes.html</link>
            <author>scott@lagunabeachrealestate.com (Sam Smith)</author>
            <title>Laguna Beach Ultra Contemporary Ocean View Homes</title>
            <description> <![CDATA[ 
Laguna Beach is well known for having the highest concentration of contemporary homes than any other beach town in Southern California.  With a current inventory of 74 contemporary homes on the open market for sale, Laguna Beach is the ideal spot for those who love this architectural design.  The word "contemporary" conjures up images of sleek lines and walls of glass for some people while other consider contemporary as wide open spaces with lots of curves and angels to the walls.  In Laguna Beach you will find three different types of contemporary homes known as soft contemporary, ultra contemporary and your classic contemporary homes with many of these offering ocean views.





Ultra contemporary homes are to the extreme with hard angels and sleek surfaces that are in contrast to the natural surroundings.  For those who love contemporary design, this style is well suited for them.  A good example of this kind of architecture is found in a listing in the Arch Beach Heights area of Laguna Beach which offers wonderful views of the ocean and Catalina Island.





One of the local architects to watch for in ultra contemporary design is "Mark Singer."  His unique blend of modern design is very unique and easily recognizable.  Most Realtors have a hard time understanding the nuances and differences in contemporary design so our website has taken the time to showcase these three styles.  





Soft contemporary design will have round edges and emphasize a more traditional approach.  This is often the most popular style throughout the country in contrast to the ultra style which will have a more limited audience.  If you are in the market to buy a contemporary home in Laguna Beach make sure to contact us at 949-355-1622 for an in depth and knowledge approach to these beautiful homes.
 ]]> </description>
            <pubDate>Wed, 01 May 2013 22:21:00 -0500</pubDate>
                    </item>
        <item>
            <guid>http://www.lagunabeachrealestate.com/blog/laguna-beach-properties-for-sale-near-fishermans-cove.html</guid>
            <link>http://www.lagunabeachrealestate.com/blog/laguna-beach-properties-for-sale-near-fishermans-cove.html</link>
            <author>scott@lagunabeachrealestate.com (Sam Smith)</author>
            <title>Laguna Beach Properties For Sale Near Fisherman's Cove</title>
            <description> <![CDATA[ 
Fisherman's Cove is a popular diving location in the North Laguna Beach area.  It is also one of the most scenic spots in Laguna with rugged cliffs against the sandy beach.  The cove is a rather small area so there is just a small handfull of properties that overlook this famous cove.


One popular spot to find condos near Fisherman's cove is the Laguna Seacliff condo building.  The building is built In a circular shape with condos facing all directions towards the ocean.  Condos located on the north west side will have great views of the Cove.   Current prices in the Laguna Seacliff  range from $1.5 to $2.3 with one new listing that faces directly toward Fisherman's Cove.  These condos represent one of the best locations to find oceanfront condos in the North Laguna Beach area.


Below are the current condos for sale that overlook Fisherman's Cove.  Please contact us with any questions regarding these ocean front condos.




 ]]> </description>
            <pubDate>Wed, 24 Apr 2013 20:59:00 -0500</pubDate>
                    </item>
        <item>
            <guid>http://www.lagunabeachrealestate.com/blog/italian-villas-for-sale-in-laguna-beach.html</guid>
            <link>http://www.lagunabeachrealestate.com/blog/italian-villas-for-sale-in-laguna-beach.html</link>
            <author>scott@lagunabeachrealestate.com (Sam Smith)</author>
            <title>Italian Villas For Sale In Laguna Beach</title>
            <description> <![CDATA[ 
Some of the best examples of Italian Villas can be found in the Laguna Beach area that are currently listed for sale.  These villas offer the classic Italian charm of wood beam vaulted ceilings and rich hardwood flooring.  Often times stone and wood fireplaces accent beveled doors and windows that overlook the ocean.  Such an estate has just come on the market in Laguna Beach that was built around the 180 degree panoramic views that stretch from the South Laguna Beach area to the Emerald Bay community in North Laguna.  The multi-level home maximizes the ocean views that can be seen from almost every room in the house and truly is spectacular.  330 Cajon Terrace is currently on the market for $3,475,000 and is ideal for those looking for a great ocean view property with a lot of character.  The home is located at the end of a private street that features a wonderful water feature as you enter the front door.  Once inside you are greeted with arched french doors that frame in the views.  You will find a total of 10 arched french doors throughout the house and the Master Suite on the top level has views from both directions and is a wonderful place to wake up to every morning.



The North Laguna area is known for it's ocean view and beach close homes.  Here you will find a lot of homes that have character and charm that were built from the early 1920's to new construction homes.  Home prices for ocean view homes normally start about the $2 million dollar mark and many of the exclusive gated communities are in this North Laguna area.  For more information on Laguna Beach homes make sure to contact us today.
 ]]> </description>
            <pubDate>Wed, 17 Apr 2013 19:12:00 -0500</pubDate>
                    </item>
        <item>
            <guid>http://www.lagunabeachrealestate.com/blog/20-million-dollar-estate-homes-in-laguna-beach-ca.html</guid>
            <link>http://www.lagunabeachrealestate.com/blog/20-million-dollar-estate-homes-in-laguna-beach-ca.html</link>
            <author>scott@lagunabeachrealestate.com (Sam Smith)</author>
            <title>20 Million Dollar Estate Homes In Laguna Beach, CA</title>
            <description> <![CDATA[ 
For those who live in Laguna Beach the mention of a $20 million dollar home is not out of the norm.  In recent months homes have come on the market for well over $40 million and currently go as high as $65 million dollars for a luxury ocean front estate home.  In the last week two new properties have come on the market in the Laguna Beach that also top this $20 million dollar price point for a total 8 properties over $20 Million dollars.


176 Emerald Bay is currently on the market for $20,000,000 and is located on the north cliff at the Emerald Bay community that extends out into the Pacific Ocean.  The home features nearly 7,000 square feet of living space and commands one of the best views to be found in Laguna Beach.  The nice part of these east facing homes is the great sunrises you get to see each morning while avoiding the direct sun in to the home during the hot afternoon periods.  The home also featured a paneled library, gym, family room, formal dining room, and a formal living room that overlooks the Laguna Beach coastline.  This by far is one of the nicest homes on the market in Emerald Bay and is well priced at $20 million.


31765 Sea Bluff Ln has also come on the market this week for $21,000,000.  The home is located in the South Laguna area that is well known for it's spectacular ocean front homes.  Unlike 176 Emerald Bay, the home is not located in a gated community but owns a prime location where you will only find 3 homes on this private and remote location on the ocean front. The home features a formal living and dining rooms, four bedrooms, four and a half baths, ocean view gym, soundproofed theater room with adjacent refreshment center, and a wine cellar accommodating 1,600+ bottles. 


Ocean Front homes in Laguna Beach currently start just under $5 million dollars.  In the last 3 months we have seen some great ocean front homes selling in the Laguna Beach area with the demand for these homes increasing.  There are three main areas to find oceanfront homes in Laguna Beach that include the South Laguna, Laguna Village and North Laguna.  Each of these areas have different nuances so make sure to connect with a local Laguna Beach agent.

 ]]> </description>
            <pubDate>Wed, 10 Apr 2013 17:48:00 -0500</pubDate>
                    </item>
        <item>
            <guid>http://www.lagunabeachrealestate.com/blog/great-laguna-beach-places-to-meet-for-lunch.html</guid>
            <link>http://www.lagunabeachrealestate.com/blog/great-laguna-beach-places-to-meet-for-lunch.html</link>
            <author>scott@lagunabeachrealestate.com (Sam Smith)</author>
            <title>Great Places To Meet For Lunch in Laguna Beach, CA</title>
            <description> <![CDATA[ 
Looking at real estate in Laguna Beach can be stressful and often times a quick break from the hustle and bustle is what you need to rejuivinate yourself.  There is no better place to soak in the great ocean views than The Rooftop Lounge.  The Rooftop Lounge is a favorite for both locals and tourists alike.  The restaurant is located at the top of the La Casa del Camino hotel in Laguna Beach.  The restaurant is not apparant as you walk into the hotel lobby area but stairs will quickly take you to the 2nd and 3rd floors of the hotel.  Keep going up and then you will arrive at the roof top where the views and people are plentiful.



During peek hours during the week days and espeically on the weekends this busy restaurant is standing room only. They don't take reservations so you have to patiently wait for diners to leave to grab a great seat. The food and drinks are light and are ideal for a nice lunch during the middle of the day. It's a great place to spend a couple hours catching up with old friends. The Deck is another spot that we highly recommend.  Located at 627 Sleepy Hollow Ln in Laguna Beach, the Deck on Laguna Beach is a beachfront restaurant that sits directly on the sand as pictured below.  There is a nice menu including fresh fish and great pasta.  It's a great place to have a glass of wine or beer and watch people walking up and down the beach.  Main Beach is also located very close to hear and is a busy place during the summer months.

Some of the best things about Laguna Beach are enjoying the natural views and vistas that you can only find here. Take the time and enjoy life here in the beautiful Laguna Beach! ]]> </description>
            <pubDate>Thu, 04 Apr 2013 21:49:00 -0500</pubDate>
                    </item>
        <item>
            <guid>http://www.lagunabeachrealestate.com/blog/irvine-cove-the-new-30-million-dollar-plus-community.html</guid>
            <link>http://www.lagunabeachrealestate.com/blog/irvine-cove-the-new-30-million-dollar-plus-community.html</link>
            <author>scott@lagunabeachrealestate.com (Sam Smith)</author>
            <title>Irvine Cove - The New $30 Million Dollar Plus Community</title>
            <description> <![CDATA[ 
What a difference a couple years makes for real estate in the Irvine Cove community.  In the last several months we have two homes in the Irvine Cove community listed as the most expensive homes in Laguna Beach with a brand new listing for $31.5 million dollars making Irvine Cove home to 4 homes listed over the $30 million dollar price point.  Has Irvine Cove become a $30 million dollar plus community?



All of these high end homes are located on the ocean front in the area known as Abalone Point which was originally designated to the Irvine Family.  The home where you will find the $65 million dollar ocean front home was originally one large parcel that was then divided up into 3 lots.  Home sales in the Irvine Cove has been strong in the last 12 months considering the community itself is rather small.  In the last 12 months these homes have sold in the Irvine Cove community.


2523 Monaco Drive was listed for $9,780,000 and sold for $8,200,000 on 7/20/2012.



2466 Riviera was listed for $5,495,000 and sold for $5,000,000 on 2/28/2013.



2565 Altamar was listed for $4,999,990 and sold for $4,375,000 on 9/19/2012.



2590 Monaco was listed for $4,750,000 and sold for $4,300,000 on 6/14/2012.



2538 Monaco was listed for $4,999,000 and sold for $4,250,000 on 8/1/2012.



2540 Irvine Cove was listed for $3,799,000 and sold for $3,420,000 on 11/16/2012.



It will be interesting to watch these new high end listings to see what they will eventually sell for.  In any case, a new bar has been set for the Irvine Cove community and the ultra exclusive Luxury Real Estate market in Laguna Beach.  To learn more about the Irvine Cove community please contact Sam at 949-355-1622 today.  All homes are by appointment only for qualified buyers only.
 ]]> </description>
            <pubDate>Fri, 29 Mar 2013 11:05:00 -0500</pubDate>
                    </item>
        <item>
            <guid>http://www.lagunabeachrealestate.com/blog/best-real-estate-deals-are-properites-on-hold-status.html</guid>
            <link>http://www.lagunabeachrealestate.com/blog/best-real-estate-deals-are-properites-on-hold-status.html</link>
            <author>scott@lagunabeachrealestate.com (Sam Smith)</author>
            <title>Best Real Estate Deals Are Properties on "Hold" Status</title>
            <description> <![CDATA[ 
Everyone from real estate agents to home buyers are talking about the low inventory of housing in Southern California and how frustrating it is to find a suitable property at a reasonable price in today's real estate market.  A lot of times these hidden gems may be out there but not visible on the open real estate market and hidden from being seen anywhere on the Internet.  Sometimes the best deals are those that are on "hold" status for one reason or another.


A real estate agent will put a home "on hold" for a wide range of reasons.  Sometimes seller's will have some kind of an emergency come up and still want to sell the home but are unable to cooperate with showings during a short period of times.  In other cases we see a lot of short sale and bank owned properties come on the market at record low prices and the real estate agent who represents the seller get inundated with calls, emails and offers from potential buyers to the point where it's too much too soon.  These agents will put the home "on hold" so they can sort through all the offers and stop the incoming calls and emails on the property.  We see this a lot from short sale agents with properties that are priced to sell.  This can be a frustrating process, especially if you are interested in the property and then all the sudden the home disappears from the radar.  Real Estate agents often don't search these homes since they can be difficult to contact the agent who is overwhelmed by too many offers and agents trying to contact them.


What happens a lot is the storm of inquiries dies down and then the real estate agent has time to see what kind of offers that they have on the table.  Just because a property is on hold doesn't mean that the property is no longer for sale.  Working with an agressive agent that is also well connected with other agents can sometimes break through that barrior and connect with the agent who has the listing.  This is one of the best kept secrets that a lot of agents don't like to talk about it because it works if you know how to handle it.


Take for example this home located at 773 Baracuda in Laguna Beach as pictured below.  The home features 3 bedrooms, 2 baths with 3,000 square feet of living space and is priced at $961,000.  The contemporary home was built in 2002 is a Mark Singer design.  Absolutely beautiful home and a great price for the large square footage.  The property is a short sale and Bank of America has picked this price.  The property came on the market for just a very short time and then was placed on hold.  If you search the Internet the home is no longer being advertised for sale but is still in our Realtor database as a hold status property.  There are other homes just like this home that have been placed on hold for one reason or another.  If you are really serious about buying a home make sure you real estate agent searches these homes as well and you may find the perfect home and not have all the competition of other buyers.

 ]]> </description>
            <pubDate>Wed, 27 Mar 2013 23:26:00 -0500</pubDate>
                    </item>
        <item>
            <guid>http://www.lagunabeachrealestate.com/blog/laguna-royale-beach-front-condos.html</guid>
            <link>http://www.lagunabeachrealestate.com/blog/laguna-royale-beach-front-condos.html</link>
            <author>scott@lagunabeachrealestate.com (Sam Smith)</author>
            <title>Laguna Royale Beach Front Condos</title>
            <description> <![CDATA[ 
Laguna Royale is a great place to find beach front condos in Laguna Beach.  The building was built in 1962 in the South Laguna area of Laguna Beach and is one of the most common places to find ocean view condos for sale under $3 million dollars.  The building itself has many condos inside the structure that are located in three different areas.  The condos located at the top are located further back from the ocean and have wonderful ocean views but don't have the full ocean front effect.  Often, roof top decks views can be seen in addition to the ocean views.  The mid level section of the Laguna Royale is where you will find direct ocean front view condos.  Of course, the better the views the more expensive the real estate.  Expect to find prices in this area from $2 to $3 million dollars.  Finally, there is a small section of condos located on the beach front that are three levels high.  This is a special area where the condos have direct ocean and quick beach access.  When they come on the market they typically priced above the $3 million dollar price point.


The Laguna Royale has a nice community pool, gym and recreational area on the lower level with direct beach access through stairs or private elevator.  An underground parking garage with a guard patrol keeps the building very secure.  Currently, condos are priced between $1,675,000 to $1,995,000.  Association dues will typically average $1,450 a month and include the amenities listed above. 



Test
 ]]> </description>
            <pubDate>Thu, 21 Mar 2013 19:40:00 -0500</pubDate>
                    </item>
    </channel>
</rss>